inspiration and information are combined in health care, the
results exceed expectations. Extraordinary Healing can help you bring
both into your life and enjoy the results.”

“When

Bernie

Siegel,

M.D.

Author of 365
and

“Art Brownstein is

Help Me

Prescrz~tions for the Soul

to

Heal

only an inspired doctor, he’s also a masterful
engaging and simple ways, he describes the remark
able miracles of healing while at the same time demystifring the science
behind these miracles so that we can all access our own extraordinary
healing powers. I highly recommend Extraordinary Healing to anyone
who wants to achieve optimum health and well being.”
teacher. In the

not

most

Larry Payne,

Founding

Ph.D.

President

International Association of Yoga

“In

prevention and taking personal responsibility for your
especially timely.
importance of mental and physical health and their integration

an era

own

The

Therapists

when

health

is paramount, Dr. Brownstein’s advice is

with each other is
all who

aspire

to

particularly relevant. This
a long and healthy life.”
James

is

an

excellent

guide

E. Banta, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.P.M.

Visiting Professor and Interim Chair,
George Washington University

for

Extraordinary

HEALING

Extraordinary

HEALING
Amazing Power of
Body’s Secret Healing System
The

Your

Arthur H. Brownstein,
M.D.,

M.P.H.

HARBOR

PRESS

Gic HARBOR, WA

Library

of

Congress Cataloging-in-Publication

Data

Brownstein, Arthur H., 1950—

Extraordinary healing:

the

power of your

amazing

body’s

secret

healing

system / Arthur H. Brownstein
cm.

p.

Includes

bibliographical

ISBN 0-936197-49-8

Healing.

references.

(alk. paper)

2. Health. 3. Mind and

IMPORTANT

The ideas,

positions,

NOTICE

and

in this book may in

statements

with orthodox, mainstream medical

outlined in this book

matters

I. Title.

body.

or on

opinion,
its

construed

as a

promise of benefits

or

conflict

regarding

health

suitable for everyone. Do
embark upon self-treatment of any
cover

attempt self-diagnosis, and do not
kind without qualified medical supervision.
not

some cases

and the advice
is

not

Nothing in

of results

this book should be

be achieved, or a guarantee
efficacy of its contents. The author,

or publisher of the safety or
publisher, its editors, and its employees disclaim any liability, loss, or risk
incurred directly or indirectly as a result of the use or application of any of
the contents of this book. If you are not willing to be bound by this dis
claimer, please return your copy of the book to the publisher for a full refund.

reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form
permission in writing from the publisher.

by

without

Printed in the United States of America.
10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3

Harbor Press, Inc.
P.O. Box 1656

Gig Harbor,

WA 98335

HARBOR PRESS and the nautilus shell
Harbor Press, Inc.

design

are

registered

trademarks of

any

his book is dedicated
his

to

Norman Cousins

members. A

surviving family

rare

international

and

(1915—1990) and

most

to

unusual human

of peace;

political
statesmen, politicians,
presidents; prolific,
best-selling author; a musician; a humorist; and an extraordinary
healer. Considered “healer of the medical profession” and “founding
father of mind-body medicine,” he was also a pioneering researcher
and outspoken proponent of psychoneuroimmunology, a new
Cousins

being,

advisor

was

an

emissary

popes, and

to

a

a

branch of medical science that studies the interactions among the
mind, the nervous system, and the immune system to help us better
understand how

affect

our

research

the UCLA School of Medicine, Norman Cousins took time
his

can

physical
though he was in the middle of intense fundraising and
in psychoneuroimmunology when we met in his office at

our

Even

beliefs, thoughts, feelings, and attitudes

health.

schedule

tell

about the

out

of

me
healing
spoke at
busy
length about why he considered it the most important system in the
body, and how research needed to be conducted in this vital area of
human health. Although, over the past 15 years, I have since heard

to

many times, and have gone on to
clinical studies and observations about it, Norman

rarely succeeds in teaching doctors how to get
patients actively participate in their own healing. This is one
of the major problems with medicine today and with doctors trained
to focus on external solutions to their patients’ health problems. The
modern-day approach of quick-fix solutions and an emphasis on
“wonder” drugs often disregards the remarkable potential we all
have to awaken our own extraordinary healing powers when we’re
sick, and to use these healing powers to prevent disease from ever
occurring. But in order to use these healing powers that we all have,
we must tap into a system of the body that has been virtually
ignored until now—the healing system. True and lasting healing can
only occur when you work with this strong and seemingly mysterious
odern medicine

their

to

power within you.
Through the years, I have

patients with diseases and condi
tions of all kinds work with their healing systems in a variety of ways
to combat sickness and restore their bodies and minds to a healthy
state. I have even seen unconscious patients in intensive care units of
hospitals heal themselves with a strong will to live that stimulates the
healing system to go into high gear. Pay attention to the stories Dr.
Brownstein shares in this book. They are all dramatic examples of the
incredible power we all have to heal ourselves and the critical impor
tance of looking within for permanent solutions to health problems.
If you are sick or weak, or even if you’re just not feeling as good
as you’d like to feel, your healing system may be slumbering, but it
is just waiting to be called into action—and it is as necessary to your
good health as your respiratory system and your digestive system.
Try waking it up with the strategies and techniques you’ll find in
this book, and you’ll experience the full range of your potential to
seen

xii

Foreword

simple first step: “Program”
yourself
positive way about yourself and
others, and, before long, you’ll see extraordinary changes in the way
you feel physically. Use the power of your mind to affect your body,
and your healing system will respond in a myriad of ways to your
thoughts and attitudes, and it will begin healing and strengthening
all of the other systems in your body. Just as patients who are in
extreme circumstances, such as in intensive care units of hospitals,
can rally and recover, so can you if you learn to acknowledge and
work with your own healing powers.
You are about to begin quite an unusual and remarkable book,
one that deserves to be read carefully and then kept close at hand for
achieve maximum health.
to

Begin

think and feel in

with

a

a

future reference in times of need. Let Dr. Brownstein show you how
to strengthen and fortify the extraordinary healing system within
you, and

body,

you’ll

and

see

remarkable

changes

in the health of your

mind,

spirit.
Claes Frostell, M.D.
Karolinska

University Hospital Huddinge

Stockholm, Sweden

~ACKNQWLEDGMENTS

any

book.

people

Many

more

due my thanks for the publication of this
simply could not be listed here. To them I offer
are

my sincere apologies.
I would like to acknowledge the

tribution

to

following people

for their

con

this work:

Norman .Cousins

was

the

original inspiration

that led

to

the

writing of this book.
Gary David Saldana, M.D., of Kauai, Hawaii, regularly encour
aged me for five years and additionally contributed by seeing my
patients each week so I would have the time to write.
Dr. Dean

Ornish, the first person

in the world

to

prove that

provided a strong, scientific founda
here. During the 10 years that I was

heart disease could be reversed,
tion for the ideas

presented
enough to work with him, I was able to witness, firsthand,
the miraculous workings of the healing system in patients with
severe, advanced heart disease. I shall be forever grateful to Dr. Ornish
for his wisdom and generosity.
Dr. Lee Lipsenthal, medical director of the Ornish Program and
originator of the Physician Heal Thyself program, has been a con
fortunate

source of encouragement for this project.
Other staff and participants of the Ornish Program I would like

cardiologist and current head of the
Integrative Medicine; Bruno Corns, M.D.,

Erminia M. Guarneri, M.D.,

Scripps

Clinic Center for

xiv

Acknowledgments

cardiologist; and Andy Meyer, M.D., cardiologist, provided lessons in
cardiology and how important the heart is to the healing system.
Bernie Siegel, M.D., has been a mentor and friend. His work with
Exceptional Cancer Patients therapy, described in his best-selling clas
sic

book, Love, Medicine and Miracles, and his many other books have

inspiration in the writing of this book.
Andrew Weil, M.D., colleague and friend, is one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
most authoritative experts in the practical and responsible use of
complementary and alternative medicines, and one of the first doc
tors to write about the healing system. I thank him for his courage
and wisdom in helping me advance the scientific and practical ideas
presented.
Larry Dossey, M.D., colleague and medical expert on spiritual
ity and prayer, has contributed greatly to the ideas included here.
Edgar Mitchell, Ph.D., was an Apollo 14 astronaut who made
history by walking on the moon. He went on to found the Institute
of Noetic Sciences, which helps fund scientific research on the cut
ting edge of healing and consciousness. He has been a major source
of inspiration over the years in my investigation into the workings
of the healing system.
David Simon, M.D., a colleague and conventionally trained
neurologist who has studied and written about Ayurveda and yoga,
has contributed greatly to this work through his insights and deep
understanding of the healing system.
Joan Borysenko, Ph.D., best-selling author and scientist, has
been a mentor and source of great inspiration in my personal and
professional life. Over the years she has provided me with many case
histories and other important clinical evidence shared in these pages.
been

a source

of great

a Harvard cardiologist, an expert in
of stress-related illnesses, and the first person in the
prove that meditation can lower blood pressure. His work

Herbert Benson, M.D., is
the

treatment

world

to

has been invaluable

to

relaxation and how it

ongoing investigations into
benefit our healing systems.

my

can

James Banta, M.D., M.P.H.,

was

the field of

the medical director of the

Corps during the Kennedy administration, former dean of the
Tropical Medicine at Tulane University
in New Orleans, and currently is professor of epidemiology at
George Washington University School of Medicine, and professor

Peace

School of Public Health and

Acknowledgments

many medical schools around the world. I thank him for
me to India, where I had the opportunity to study yoga and

emeritus

sending

xv

at

traditional Indian medicine. Because of him, I

ancient, natural, effective methods for
with the

treating

was

able

to

observe

diseases that worked

healing system.

Larry Payne, Ph.D., founder of the International Association of
Yoga Therapists, internationally acclaimed yoga teacher and best
selling author, has been a huge support in my work with the body’s
healing system and in the writing of this book.
Steve Schwartz, M.D., colleague and classmate in medical
school, and his wife, Alma Schwartz, M.D., both long-time advo
cates of the body’s natural ability to heal itself, have made a
significant contribution to my career and the birth of this project.
Roberto Masferrer, M.D., military medicine colleague, and
world-class neurosurgeon, Dr. Tom Higginbotham, D.O., an osteo
pathic physician with incredibly gifted healing hands, and Dr. Bud
Hockley, dermatologist, have been sources of great support and
inspiration in my career and as I put together this material.
David Elpern, M.D., has been a wise colleague and major sup
port for my career over the years. He was kind enough to contribute
case histories from his patient archives that I have included within.
Bernard Towers, M.D. (deceased),
of

psychoneuroimmunology

was

my advisor in the

for the research I

depart

proposing
along with the entire
team of researchers in the Norman Cousins Program in psychoneu
roimmunology at UCLA, which included George Solomon, M.D.,
ment
to

do with Norman Cousins

Fawzy Fawzy, M.D.,

at

was

UCLA. He,

Carmen Clemente, M.D., Herbert Weiner,

M.D., and others, contributed

to

the book’s ideas. I thank them all

early conceptualization of these ideas.
Tuck Craven, M.D.; Betty Craven, M.D.; Professor Len
Eisenman, Ph.D., from Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia;
for their

pioneering

work and

and Dr. Frank Marstellar
cation and contributed

to

all instrumental in my medical edu
many of the ideas expressed here.

were

Marty Rossman, M.D., and David Bressler, Ph.D., founders of
the Academy for Guided Imagery, were my instructors in the two
year clinical training program I completed in guided imagery and
healing, and they taught me what a powerful tool imagery can be in
the activation of the

healing system.

xvi

Acknowledgments

Kuvalayananda, pioneering researcher in yoga and founder of
Kaivalyadhama Yoga Institute in India, where I have studied
during the past 20 years, and his wise and devoted students, Swami
Digambarji; Sri 0. P. Tiwari; V. Pratap, Ph. D.; and Dr. Sri Krishna,
S.

the

M. B.B.S., Ph.D., all served

as

my teachers and caretakers in India

therapeutic benefits of yoga and
and fortify the healing system.
Claes Frostell, M.D., Ph.D., chairman of the department of
anesthesiology at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden;
Rosario Porrovecchio, M.D., of Italy; and Pedro de Vicente, M.D.,
of Spain, have all encouraged and inspired me in my work of inte
grating body, mind, and spirit in support of the healing system.
Virender Sodhi, a brilliant yet down-to-earth Ayurvedic physi
ci창n and naturopathic doctor, has continued to inspire, encourage,
and support my career and the writing of this book.
Rob Ivker, D.O., author of numerous books and past president
about the invaluable

and

taught me
how it can strengthen

of~ the

American Holistic Medical Association,

Wisneski, M.D.,

ported

and

a

holistic

endocrinologist
in this

encouraged me
physicians

Hawaii-based

as

well

as

Len

and healer, have sup

project.

Ira Zunin, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A,

president of the Hawaii State Consortium of Integrative Medicine;
and Terry Shintani, M.D., M.P.H., J.D., founder of the Hawaiian
Diet Program, have both, through their work, contributed signifi
cantly to the ideas presented in this book.
Tim Crane, M.D.; Donald

Ph.D.;

Traller, PA.; Robert Teichman, M.D.;

Jeff Goodman, M.D.; Ron Burkhart,
M~D.; Stephen DeNigris, M.D.; Roger Netzer, M.D.; Bill Evslin,
MLD.; Neal Sutherland, M.D.; all my colleagues at the Wilcox
H~spital in Kauai; and my colleagues at. the University of Hawaii sup
ported and encouraged me in the completion of this project.
The staff, my colleagues and coworkers, and my many patients at
the Princeville Medical Clinic; Kilauea North Shore Clinic; Kapaa
Clinic; and Family Practice Walk-In Clinic at Wilcox Hospital in
Lihue, Kauai, have, over the years, had an open mind to give me
Nicholas Zina, M.D.;

feedback

on

the many unconventional methods I have

recom

mended here.

Debby Young is the best editor in the whole world. Over a four
year period, she was instrumental in helping me to organize, clarify,

xvii

Acknowledgments

and

strip

down the

huge

volume of material I had

a

ideas flow

smoothly and

are

grasp. Since I have begun work
much better writer. She has also served

easy

to

ing with her, I have become a
as my spiritual cheerleader by encouraging
was

for this

cohesive, clear, readable manuscript. Because of her, the

book into

I

gathered

overwhelmed with both clinical duties

you, Debby.
Bert Holtje and Gene Brissie

for

are

keep going when
and writing. Thank

me to

my agents and I thank them

work.

in this

literary
representing
Harry Lynn, president of Harbor Press, published my first book,
Healing Back Pain Naturally. I thank him for believing in me
me

enough

to

publish

this work,

and associates and the

helpful

and

rest

as

well. I also

of the folks

at

want to

thank his staff

Harbor Press for

being so

cooperative.

Nutan, my wife, and Shantanu, my son, allowed me to be away
from them for so many hours, which added up considerably over
four years, while I wrote. Being married to a physician is hard
enough, but to a physician who is also a writerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;this is a most cruel
and unusual

punishment!
My father, S.R. Brownstein, M.D., encouraged

me

to

do my

best in all my endeavors while he practiced medicine in a career that
spanned 50 years, including a professorship at the UCLA School of

private practice in Beverly Hills, California. My
mother, Fernlee Brownstein, relentlessly encouraged me to follow in
my fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s footsteps as a physician over the course of my childhood
and early education.

Medicine and

a

“Natural forces within
—HIPPOCRATES

“The inner

genius

us are

the

true

healers of disease.”

(460—400 B.C.)

of the

intelligence

body

is the ultimate and supreme

in nature.”

—THE VEDAS

“The

physician

—GALEN

“The

is

only

nature’s assistant.”

(129—199 A.D.)

physician

far and that the

knows that his little black

body’s

own

healing

bag

“The

physician’s ability to reassure the patient
activating the body’s own healing system.”
“The

more

serious the

illness, the
all your

fight back, mobilizing
intellectually, and physically.”

can

carry him

only

is

a

major factor

in

important it is for you to
resources—spiritually, emotionally,
more

becoming a nation of sissies and hypochondriacs, a self
medicating society easily intimidated by pain and prone to panic.
understand almost nothing about the essential robustness of the
human body or its ability to meet the challenge of illness.”
“We

so

system is the main resource.”

are

—No~&N CousINs

We

body of evidence suggesting that extraordinary heal
ing, including regression of normally fatal tumors, takes place, with
no known scientific explanation.”
“There is

a

wide

pressing argument for a thoroughgoing,
urgent, and even passionate investigation of remarkable recovery, it is
this: to discover and utilize the properties of another unmapped meta
system of the body and mind—the healing system.”
“We believe if there is

one

—DRS. BRENDAN O’REGAN

“Your

body

can

heal itself. It

CARYLE HIRSHBERG

AND

can

do

so

because it has

a

healing

system. If you are in good health, you will want to know about this
system, because it is what keeps you in good health and because you
can

enhance that condition. If you

will

want to

or

people

you love

are

know about this system, because it is the best

sick,

you

hope

for

recovery.”
—ANDREW WElL, M.D.

“Medical students

are not

really taught

about the

about disease—how

healing system.
and how to treat,

to diagnose
They are taught
but they are not taught how the body goes about treating itself. They
will point to the immune system and let it go at that. But healing
involves not just killing off disease germs or viruses but the process of
reconstruction and repair.”

—DR OMAR FAREED

turning point in medical history, when, having recog
nized the outer limits of technological medicine, doctors and lay
people are together discovering the vast powers for creating health
“We

beyond question, they say,
true,
important.’ Finally, when sufficient
time has elapsed to fully evidence its importance, they say, ‘Yes, surely
it is important, but it is no longer new.”
new

‘Yes, it may be

—MICHEL

DR

but it is

not

MONTAtGNE

(1533—1592)

INTRODUCTION

our

body

is

an

incredible creation. No other machine is like it in

the world. For the
and it

can

repair

most part, it is designed to last for about 100 years,
and heal itself from a whole host of injuries, traumas,

illnesses, and diseases. It
systems of the

can

it has

do this because, in addition

to

the other

healing system, a system so powerful and
efficient, so subtle and dynamic, and yet so obvious that it has been
largely taken for granted and overlooked by most of modern science.
Even if this system were more actively searched for, our most modern
diagnostic technologies are currently inadequate to accurately map out
the full extent of its realm. As a result, despite its supreme importance,
your healing system remains the least studied, the least understood,
and the least well known of all of your body’s systems.
Although the concept of a healing system may seem relatively new
to Western medicine, in reality; the idea that such a system exists is very
body,

old. More than

two

a

thousand years ago,

Hippocrates,

considered “the

father of Western medicine,” declared that “natural forces within
the

true

healers of disease.” Even

today,

doctors in China, India,

and other countries in the Far East and Middle East continue

their

us are

Japan,

to

teach

patients how

to activate and cooperate with their bodies’ natural
heal themselves in times of illness and injury. And within the

ability
lofty ranks of our own modern medicine, every surgeon who has ever
wielded a scalpel has relied on the body’s natural ability to heal itself
following each and every operation performed.
Norman Cousins, the famous author, healer, and diplomat,
first spoke to me about the healing system more than a decade ago.
At this time, he was at UCLA, pioneering a new scientific program
in psychoneuroimmunology or PNI, for short, which focused on
understanding how the mind and nervous system influence the
to

Introduction

Xxiv

functioning
usher in

an

of the immune system. His research
important new era in medicine. When

findings helped
we

met,

he im

healing system, but it
wasn’t until I came across the following extraordinary case that I
became aware of the significance of Cousins’ supplications.
Peter was a patient of mine who had undergone a major opera
tion 25 years earlier, during which a part of one of his lungs had to
be removed. To access his lungs, the surgeon surgically removed a rib
from his chest wall. As we spoke about the operation, Peter men
tioned that even though the entire rib had been removed from his
spine to his chest, it had somehow grown back. As a physician, I had
never heard of ribs growing back, so I asked whether he had proof.
plored

me to

and write about the

investigate

X-ray, which verified that what he said
X-ray, I wouldn’t have believed it pos
sible. And although the rib was mottled in appearance and distinctly
He said he had

was true.

a

copy of his

If I hadn’t

seen

the

thinner than his other ribs, there it

was.

One solid rib bone had

grown in and connected from his sternum in the very front of his
chest to the vertebra in the back of his spinal column.

Although it took his body 25 years to regrow the rib, his X-ray
proof of a healing system that was never discussed in my med
ical school training and was more amazing than I had ever known.
To form a new complete rib where only a blank space existed is akin

was

to

salamanders

growing

new

tails

or a

person

growing

a new

limb. 1

copy of Peter’s X-ray in my office to remind me of how
truly amazing this healing system within our bodies really is. It also
reminds me that if we would devote more time to its study, we could

still have

a

learn countless other wondrous miracles about this incredible

ral

healing

access

it

to

system that each one of
achieve optimum health.

us

possesses,

including

natu

how

to

body’s healing system works in ways that modern science
hasn’t even begun to look at or understand. In addition, it has the
titanic responsibility of monitoring all the other systems in your
body and making sure that everything in your body is functioning
at its optimum. This is especially challenging when our modern way
of life, which can be fast-paced and stressful, is inherently very hard
Your

get to know your
healing system, to learn how to cooperate with it, and to explore and
discover ways to strengthen and fortifji it in the process.
on our

practical strategies, exercises, techniques, and methods to help you
take advantage of your natural internal healing resources. These tools
will enable you to prevent and overcome a vast array of illnesses while
improving the overall quality of your health and life.
Part One describes your extraordinary healing system and how
it works, as well as specific strategies and techniques for strengthen

ing

and

fortifying this remarkable system.
Chapter 1 explains how your body’s

health, how illness and disease

are

natural

exceptions

state

is

one

of

rather than the rule,

how your body operates on the same principles that work in nature,
and how your healing system’s primary function is to help you
maintain your natural state of health.

Chapter 2 presents evidence that demonstrates the existence of
your healing system, with case reports and examples that reveal how
your body uses specific mechanisms of repair and restoration of
health that are adapted to a wide variety of medical scenarios.
Chapter 3 briefly describes the other important systems in your
body that function synergistically and cooperate with your healing
system to help keep you healthy.
Chapter 4 presents simple yet powerful strategies and tech
niques

that will teach you how

to cooperate with and enhance your
and fortifying it so it can most effi

healing system, strengthening
ciently do its job of preventing and healing illness and disease, while
creating better overall health.
Chapter 5 covers the important area of nutrition and its role in
influencing the performance of your healing system.
Chapter 6 explores the important relationship between your
mind and your body, how your thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and
emotions influence your physical health and the functioning of your
healing system, and what practical steps you can take to maximize
the benefits of this relationship.
Chapter 7 reinforces the power of a strong and vibrant healing
system as it relates to the aging process. In this chapter you’ll find
numerous stories of people who have lived very long lives with opti
mum health because of their strong healing systems. These stories
illustrate the critical point that growing older doesn’t have to be

Introduction

xxvi

synonymous with sickness and deterioration. This
ter

shows that the

most

effective

path

to a

long

important chap

life with

good health

keep your healing system fortified and strong.
Chapter 8 includes stories of extraordinary healing that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve
either witnessed myself or have heard about. This is a small sampling
of the thousands and thousands of people whose healing systems
have enabled them to heal from a wide variety of health problems,
from very serious illnesses, such as cancer, to less life-threatening
is

to

conditions, such

as eczema.

Part Two is the

prescriptive

section of the book. It

begins

with

general strategies to enhance your healing system that take minutes
a day, but that will have a powerful cumulative effect on your heal
ing system. Then youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find step-by-step strategies to help you
overcome specific medical problems and heal from a wide variety of
common ailments. I organized this section by the systems of the
body to make it easier for you to use. Part Two ends with additional
relaxation methods, breathing techniques, and guided-imagery tech
niques to strengthen your healing system.
The bottom line is that you have many more internal healing
resources available to you than you are currently aware. If you knew
what your healing system was capable of, and how you could bring
out its best, you would be able to overcome almost any malady or
affliction that life could throw your way. In so doing, you would dis
cover that just as illness does not occur randomly or spontaneously,
neither does health. Simple things that you can do to support your
healing system can combine to make a huge difference in your
health and quality of life.
We are not helpless victims of circumstance. We can do much
to heal ourselves from illness, and to live vibrant, healthy, happy
lives.

PART ONE

Extraordinary
Healing System

Your

CHAPTER

Your

I

Healing System

and Your Natural State of Health

hroughout the universe and all of nature, there exists an abun
dantly flowing, vibrant energy that creates and sustains all of life.
On earth, this energy permeates all living forms and is the underly
ing sustaining principle that allows species to be born, to grow, to
multiply, to flourish, and to continue their life cycles for thousands
and even millions of years. This energy, or life force, as it is often
referred to, expresses itself as vitality or “aliveness.” Although there
may be exceptions, this is the overwhelmingly dominant theme that
governs the life of each living creature and species, including human
beings. In human beings, this vitality or aliveness expresses itself as
a

natural

state

of health.

Health is your body’s fundamental, natural state. Health is
programmed into the DNA of every one of your cells, as it is pro
into the DNA of the cells of every human

being. In fact,
if you were to conduct a simple experiment by leaving your body to
its own devices, supplying it with just a few basic necessities, you
would discover that, for the most part, it can remain healthy all on
grammed

with very little interference or intervention.
Your body’s natural state of health explains why the average cur
rent life span for human beings is well over 75 years, with many

its

own,

people living

to

the age of 100

or more.

Without this intrinsic

state

4

of health, humans could
to

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

exist

after

generation

speciesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; natural, fundamental condition,
perished from the face of the earth.
Your natural

state

and continue

possibly live this long
generation. If good health
not

of health

we

serves as

a

were

would have

not our

long

fundamental

since

principle

around which your body organizes, balances, and keeps itself vital
and strong over the years. Because of this internal organizing prin
ciple, your body knows how to adjust and adapt to external forces
and

changes

in the environment while

keeping

its order and bal

itself from lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

myriad challenges,
uncanny resiliency
has
been
it
after
to spring back to health even
subjected to tremen
dous forces of deprivation, starvation, and torture, life-threatening
illnesses, and high-impact accidents.
Your body also displays an inner intelligence or wisdom that
supports your natural state of health as you move through the vari
ous stages of life. Consider, for example, that your body knows how
to grow a complete set of new teeth after you lose your baby teeth.
How does the body know how to increase its size as it grows, to
create facial hair in men as they go through puberty, and to enlarge
It

ance.

can

right

and

repair

threats, and disturbances. Your body possesses

an

the breasts in women? How does it know how

to

in the

and

place

of the

to create new

one

grow

that has been lost because of

skin where the old

layer

a

a new

stubbed

How does your

when
can

injuries

body

occur

it mend and heal

a

blockage

during an
together a frac
new

blood

in the old ones?

maintain its natural

and various diseases

itself, and

toe,

has been lost

abrasion? How does your body know how to knit
tured bone so that it is stronger than before, and to grow
vessels in the heart if there is

toenail

state

regularly

return to a state

of health,

even

assault it? How

of normal function

ing, following infections from viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites,
or major traumatic injuries and life-threatening illnesses? Think
about childhood alone, and all the injuries children sustain, and the
tears they shed throughout the early stages of growing up, as they
crawl, stand, walk, climb up and down stairs, run, ride a
to this the multitude of rashes, fevers, and
bicycle,
infections they must endure, and it is difficult to imagine that any
learn

to

and swim. Add

child could
of

us

did.

ever

make it into adulthood in

one

piece. And yet,

most

Your

Healing System

How does your body move forward
tumble, turbulent times of life and always

for the

5

and Your Natural State of Health

rough and
spring back, continuing,

through

the

part, past the age of 50, to 75, and even 100 years or
more? It accomplishes all this because of its incredible healing
most

system, and the crucial ways in which that system works with your
body’s other tissues, organs, and systems.

Health Is Natural and Normal;

Disease Is Unnatural and Abnormal
Because health is your

unnatural, abnormal

natural, normal

state.

What do I

The word health is related
ment

toward wholeness and

to

illness represents
by this?

state,

mean

healing, which is
well-being. When

the word

a sense

of

an

a move

you

are

you feel whole and well, and you have a comfortable,
vibrant, free-flowing, easy feeling in your body. Your body feels

healthy,

light;

your

everyday

movements

and activities feel effortless. This is

your natural state of health, a condition associated with
ease in the body and in the mind.

a

feeling

of

When you become ill, you lose your health. You lose your feel

ing of ease, and you become afflicted with “dis-ease.” Understood in
these terms, disease represents nothing more than a temporary

departure

from your natural

Disease represents

balanced

state

of health.

a movement

away from your

chaotic

central, orderly,

This condition is

naturally
accompanied by a feeling of discomfort or even pain. Each movement
in your body becomes difficult and full of effort. You expend great
energy performing simple tasks. Your breathing is usually labored. Your
heart rate is increased. Your appetite is decreased. Your body feels weak
and vulnerable. This is an unnatural and abnormal state for your body.
When you have lost your health, instead of a natural feeling of
lightness or ease, your body feels sluggish and heavy You feel ill at
ease because you are out of balance, and your body has become dis
oriented. It has become a huge distraction for your mind. To think
about anything uplifting or creative is difficult, because your mental
energies are completely consumed by your disease and discomfort.
Your body has become a painful, heavy burden that keeps you from
state, into

a more

state.

6

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

your life. Disease is not your body’s natural, normal
On the contrary, it is entirely abnormal and unnatural.

balance. This order and balance that maintain your natural state
of health are achieved through homeostasis as your body processes
and

adjusts

to

external forces and stimuli

to

maintain its natural

of health.

state

‘When external forces become harmful

or

toxic, and these forces

large or persistent enough to create significant imbalance in your
body, order turns to chaos, with dis-ease, or illness resulting.
According to the biological principle of homeostasis, or balance, ill
ness and disease are only temporary states. Any illness or disease,
then, when dissected to its essential nature, reflects only this: a
are

breakdown in the orderliness of your
imbalance and disorder.
Illness and disease
in your

ance

not

body; they

only

also

are

body,

a

state

of temporary

temporary, unnatural imbal
the result of temporary, unnatural

create

imbalances that have been created in the world. For

example,

in

developing countries, where the scales of material abundance
tipped toward poverty, scarcity, and a lack of basic human
necessities such as food, water, shelter, clothing, sanitation, and edu
cation, “diseases of lack” predominate. Enough of the basic human
necessities simply are not available. In this deficient environment,
the body becomes weak and vulnerable and can fall prey to any of a
number of diseases. Alternatively, in the developed Western world,
“diseases of excess” prevail, diseases caused by too much: too much
food, too much luxury, too much overindulgence, too much stress,
and so on. Again, this situation represents imbalanced conditions.
Nobody gets sick by accident, or out of the blue. If you take a
many

have been

the factors that govern your health, you will discover
that illness does not strike randomly. Disease and illness, with very

closer look

few

at

exceptions,

occur at

predictable

sunrise and

times, and for discernable
and

rea

in
predictable
conjunction with the earth’s rotation on its axis, just as the tides of
the ocean are predictable and occur in conjunction with the lunar
phases, so it is with illness and disease.
sons.

Just

as

sunset

are

occur

Your

Healing System

Listening
As I’ve

body’s

7

and Your Natural State of Health

already mentioned,

to

Your

Body

illness and disease

occur

when your

internal environment has become imbalanced and disor

dered. This is

usually the result of nature’s basic laws of health being
knowingly or unknowingly violated. These laws are simple and sys
tematic. More important, your body, which is connected to nature,
is constantly trying to remind you of these laws through its intelli
gent communications network. In fact, you are probably intuitively
aware of what your body requires to remain healthy and strong.
Your body continually provides you with clear, updated infor
mation relayed directly from a precise, highly intelligent, early
warning system designed to inform you when you are in danger of
losing your health. You fall into illness or disease usually when you
have ignored your body’s basic communications and early warning
signs. This occurs in spite of your body’s pleading with you to
change your unhealthy ways. These physical messages usually start
as gentle incantations in the form of bodily discomfort, and then
progress to shouting and screaming in the form of debilitating pain.
For instance, Greg, a patient of mine with chronic back prob
lems, was building a house. After bending over, sawing wood,
pounding nails, and lifting heavy lumber all day long, in the evening
he’d be extremely sore and stiff. The next morning, the pain was so
bad he could barely get out of bed. Rather than rest and take it easy,
however, he’d take pain killers so he could finish his work. This pat
tern went on for several weeks, and it seemed to work, until one day
he

went too

beam, he

far. While he

ruptured

a

was

bending over

disc in his

spine

to

lift

and ended

heavy laminated
up on an operating
a

table, where he underwent emergency spine surgery. As is often the
with many of my other back-pain patients, Greg had had plenty
warning from his body before his rupture; he just chose not to
listen. To him, finishing his house was a higher priority than listen
case

of

taking care of his body. As with most illness or injuries
that are entirely preventable, Greg could easily have solved his back
problem without having to go through surgery if he had taken the
time to heed the messages from his body.
Jim, another patient of mine, had chronic obstructive lung
disease, a condition very much like asthma. He needed regular
ing

to

and

8

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

prescriptions for inhalers that contained strong medicines, which he
used daily just to be able to breathe. As a complication of his condi
tion, he often came down with serious respiratory infections that
required potent antibiotics to stop. Often, he would end up in the
emergency

room

because he couldn’t breathe. At these times, he

needed oxygen, ventilating assistance, and strong intravenous med
ications, or he could easily have died. Although his breathing
problems would flare up when he smoked, he continued to do so,

packs of cigarettes a day, his pattern for
body was constantly hacking, coughing,
and spitting up foul-smelling mucous and phlegm. He finally got
the message one day after a near-death episode, after which he ended
to

the

more

tune

of

one to two

than 20 years. His

up in the intensive-care unit for two weeks.
It has now been three years since Jim stopped

he

no

longer requires

inhalers

to

smoking. Funny,

breathe, he hasn’t had

a

respiratory

more
a year, and his chronic obstructive pul
monary disease has vanished. Jim decided to pay attention to his
body’s messages and work with its natural ability to maintain his

than

infection in

health and

well-being.
Sally is another patient of mine who ignored her body’s mes
sages. Sally was in a lot of pain and had been vomiting yellow,
bilious material for two days before she came to my office in obvi
ous distress. Her pain, which had lasted for almost one week, was
located in the right upper aspect of her abdomen. She was signifi
cantly overweight, of fair complexion, and approximately 40 years
of age. Her signs and symptoms pointed to an acute gall-bladder
attack, which tests later confirmed to be the problem. In most cases,
this condition, brought on largely by a high-fat diet, is completely
preventable.
Almost every day for the week preceding her problem, Sally had
eaten sausage and fried eggs for breakfast, burgers and fries with a
milkshake for lunch, and pizza and ice cream for dinner. Even when
her pain increased and the vomiting began, she continued to eat
toast with butter, cheese sandwiches, and chocolate candy bars, all
high-fat foods. She couldn’t understand why she didn’t feel better.
After I spoke with Sally at length, she mentioned to me that this
Over the past several years,
certain rich foods, she had noticed significant

wasn’t the first incident of this

after

having

eaten

nature.

Healing System

Your

9

and Your Natural State of Health

bloating, and belching, things that she
attributed to mere “indigestion.” Her body had obviously been
trying to get her attention to change her diet for a long time.
I placed Sally on a clear, liquid diet for 48 hours and also sent
her down to the hospital for laboratory tests and an X-ray to con
firm my diagnostic suspicions. After the diagnosis was confirmed, I
referred Sally to a surgeon to have her gall bladder removed. During
the 48 hours after she had come to see me, during which she drank
only water and liquids and ate nothing solid, her vomiting and pain
completely stopped, and she told me she hadn’t felt that good in a
long, long time. However, by then, the wheels of the system were
turning, and the surgeon’s knife was impatiently waiting. After three
days, Sally was wheeled into the operating room, where her gall
bladder was removed in less than 2 hours. Sally could have main
tained her natural state of health by heeding the messages her body
had been giving her. Instead, she ignored them and interfered with
her body’s natural ability to keep her healthy and strong.
Sam’s body was talking to him, too, and, like Sally, he wasn’t lis
tening. Sam was a local Hawaiian who drank a case of beer each day
abdominal discomfort,

and didn’t think much about it. He and his buddies had been
this

steady regimen

for many years.

on

They met at the local beach park

after work, drank, and told their stories until well after dark and it
time

was

to

go home. One

activities, Sam
liver

was

came

in

day,

painful and swollen.

he hadn’t been able

suffering

from

acute

after many years of these drinking
His abdomen was tender, and his

to see me.

to eat or

He

was nauseous

drink for

more

and

than

dehydrated,

and

week. He

was

a

(and chronic) alcoholism that was affecting his
were also extremely swollen, a bad sign that

liver. His feet and ankles

having circulation problems, as well.
plenty of warnings from his body before this
episode. He had not only experienced a tender, swollen belly and
liver, nausea, and dehydration on several prior occasions, but he had
meant

he

was

Sam had had

also suffered from DTs
tried

to

quit drinking.

of suffering had

(delirium tremens) and shakes when he had

After brief periods, however,

passed,

once

the

storms

drinking habits with his

he had resumed his

buddies.
I

was

story, I

very

thought

busy

with other

patients,

and after

I wouldn’t have much of an

hearing Sam’s
impact on helping him

10

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

change his ways. I resigned myself to believing he was just another
casualty of alcohol, and I referred him to an internist who could
admit him to the hospital. I did, however, give my perfunctory
speech about the need to stop drinking, which I thought would only
to

fall

deaf ears.

on

Two years later, a man showed up in my office for a chest cold.
Other than that, he looked healthy and in good, athletic shape.
Because of his
was a

new

totally changed person!

Sam told

that what I had said

me

He hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t had

impact.

he had been

drinking

ical labor; he had
his

beard, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t recognize who it wasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Sam. He

and he

body,

quit smoking,

person

the

are

usually

person

so

easily,

people

viruses in

has

them

the

on

airplane,

not

the

or

latter.

that allows

something

Epidemiology

world, known

triangle

they

who
are

environment

our

changed

them,

people

as

only

only

organism

or

of health.

us to

for the bronchitis

or

or

the

throat

natural. However, because of
in

our

of the illness. If

spend

immediate envi

were

every

spread

day

they

were,

all of

from person

to

around these germs

these germs, should be the sickest

Under normal conditions, bacteria and

do

not

bother

us

in the least.

become infected and affected

in us? Recent research

points strongly

What, then,

by

them? Is it

in favor of the

is the science that studies disease outbreaks in the

A classic model known

exists in this field. The

person who is the

phys

listened

family member,

organisms

cause

spread
not.

usually

epidemics.

existence of disease

doing
finally

depends

as

epidemiological triangle
on

the

epidemiological

illustrates that the

three factors:

I) the host, which
disease; 2) the agent, which

potential target of the
disease-causing factor that initiates

or

transmits the

an

Instead,

hard

breathe, these microorganisms, in and of

we

then doctors, who

of all. But

state

another

blaming

would be sick all the time. Also, if germs

and around the

did make

day

Why?

the air

in

and

well. Sam had

of bacteria, viruses, and other

and

themselves,

exercising,

as

contracted. This attitude is

they

ubiquity

ronment

us

next to

him that

years. And it showed!

two

his natural

to

into my office

come

sitting

infection

back

was

Who Gets Sick, and

Many people

drink in

a

lots of water,

to

is the
is the

disease;

to

Your

and

the environment, in which both the host and agent reside

3)

contact

Medical science needs

discover the

help

future

true

from

epidemics

Whereas

origins

newer

previous medical

medical research

factors, which
We

reflect one’s natural
understand
are

why

exposed

more

to

we

importance

to

the

that

us

keep

emphasis

resiliency. Studying host

and

healthy

us

the

as

host resistance

on

help

body’s

us

resist ill

internal

healing

illness and disease and

resistance factors

helps

us to

people get sick and why others don’t, even when they
same disease-causing agents; why certain people get sick

some

the

why

certain diseases

seem to

host resistance factors show that, for

on

of health and

respect

personal

natural

our

choices

Studies

most

susceptibility

of ourselves, how well

we

to

have

an

affinity for

we nurture

state

make in

are

based

and honor

our

every

day

the

body

that is

responsible

in

on

our

of health. These factors

in the

determining

how well

we

our

take

bodies, and how well

are

dependent

on

the

lives.

host resistance factors have also led

on

people living

important factors
illness

in addition to the immune system, there is another
tem in

to

more

person’s susceptibility to

a

modern, developed world, the

care

to

solve and prevent

people.

Studies

state

much greater

places

often than others; and

certain

in

bacteria and viruses that caused the diseases,

as

determine

They

all three factors

measure

think of host resistance factors

can

resources.

and

research attributed

factors within

are

weigh

to

of illness, while it works

or come

occurring.

virulence of such agents

ness.

11

and Your Natural State of Health

Healing System

for its natural

the realization that,

to

extremely important

resiliency,

and its

sys

ability

to

heal itself and
the

most

keep itself healthy. This system is the body’s healing system,
recently discovered system, and its most important one. The body

knows how
its

to

heal itself and maintain its natural

state

of health because of

healing system.

Your

Healing System

The Guardian of Your

Imagine yourself outside

skipping

down the

street,

on a

Body’s

beautiful,

feeling

Health

day. You’re
light-hearted. All of a

warm summer

carefree and

you trip on an oversized crack in the sidewalk. As you feel
yourself going down, you instinctively put out your arm to brace

sudden,

12

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

your fall. As you hit the ground and slide along the pavement, you
immediately feel pain in your arm. As you slowly rise to your feet,
you notice

red,

raw,

patch of skin
bleeding. Although you’re

an area

and

where

a

has been

thankful that it’s

scrape, it still hurts like the dickens. In doctor’s

sustained

just

off. It is

ripped

language,

only

a

you have

abrasion!

an

of the

days, without much fuss, you
watch your body go through interesting yet predictable changes at the
site of the abrasion. First, it begins to secrete a clear-looking fluid that
eventually turns into a brown, crusty covering that thickens and forms
into a scab. When your body sheds the scab after a week or two, just
Over the

layer
sight

several

next

lizard sheds its skin, you notice you have a brand-new
of skin. Several months later, there’s not even a scar to mark the

snake

as a

course

or

of the

and yet, at the
same time, when you think about the fact that you have new skin, you
have to ask yourself, “How did my body know how to do that?”
Your

injury~ Pretty

body

system. For the

common,

knows how

to

everyday stuff,

heal itself because of its

ing system keeps
myriad of problems

a

These

events

healing

part, without your even knowing it, your heal
your body resilient by repairing and healing it from

most

encountered every
include not only the rapid

single day of your life.
mending of superficial

problems such as abrasions and cuts and bruises on the skin, but also
the supervising, monitoring, and continual adjusting of critical
physiological processes that occur deep within your body’s internal
environment. When external forces seek
your

body,

when order becomes less

chaos, when dis-ease,
to restore

state

of health. Here

o

safeguard
Your
to

orderly

imbalance within

and may

even turn to

illness manifests, your healing system works
order and balance to help you reclaim your natural

healing system can speed up your heart rate and increase
the strength of its contractions to rapidly deliver more blood,
oxygen, and nutrients to specific sites that need healing; this
process includes cases of life-threatening emergencies.

Your

Your

a

a

Healing System

13

and Your Natural State of Health

healing system stimulates your glands to produce key hor
mones to initiate growth and repair processes within the cells of
damaged tissues.
Your healing system can increase body temperature to cause a
Your

fever and induce

sweating,

to remove

toxins when

an

infection

is present.

healing system can modify the function of your kidneys to
reduce urine output and help conserve water if you’re dehy
drated.

a

Your

a

Your

a

Your

healing system supervises the amazing
remodeling, of knitting your bones together as

process of bone
it heals fractures.

healing system can increase your breathing rate and lung
capacity to bring in more oxygen for your cells and tissues when
an illness or injury has occurred.
system can do all of these things and many, many
In fact, for as long as you are alive, your healing system

Your
more.

healing

remains viable and committed

body’s

to

its role~

as

the

guardian

of your

health.

Even if there have been times in the past when you were quite
ill and had to struggle against life’s most serious adversities and set

healing system was there for you, attempting to pull you
out of your suffering. Even if you are battling an illness right now,
underneath the symptoms of illness, you will find your healing
system working hard to reestablish balance and order in your body.
The fact that you are alive today is indicative of your healing
system’s functioning to fulfill your body’s underlying drive to heal
and become healthy once again. Even if your health is currently
compromised and not what you would like it to be, you can work
with your healing system to strengthen and fortify it and regain your
backs,

your

natural

state

Eliminating
In many

ing

Obstacles

cases,

system,

jeopardizes
and

of health.

you

to

Your

Healing System

unknowingly place obstacles in the way of your heal

creating

an

unfair burden that hinders its work and

its effectiveness.

removing them,

By understanding

what these obstacles

in many instances, your

healing

system,

are

now

14

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

complete its task of healing, can quickly restore normal
functioning to your body, enabling itto express its natural state of health.
For example, consider the case of a chronic lung infection in a
person who continues to smoke cigarettes. Constant breathing of
cigarette smoke is not natural. If cigarette smoking were natural,
weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d all have been born with a cigarette in our mouth. Your body
was
designed to breathe fresh and healthy, clean, natural air.
Although it can survive and tolerate cigarette smoke for a certain
period of time, after a while, the smoke particles, the carbon monox
ide, the tars, and the other toxic substances in the cigarette smoke
create a burden on your healing system that causes an imbalance and
a breakdown in your health. In this case, removing the harmful
obstacle of the cigarette smoke is all that is required for your body
to regain its natural state of health. With the burden of the cigarette
smoke removed, it is an easy, routine task for your healing system to
restore your body to its natural state of health.
Another example is evident with heart disease, the number-one
killer in the Western world. Heart disease is caused by excess choles
terol accumulation. High cholesterol levels resulting from a lack of
exercise, too many rich and fatty foods, and stress can clog the arter
ies of the heart and cause a heart attack. Removing these obstacles
by restricting fat intake, increasing exercise, and managing stress
allows the healing system to restore the body to its natural state of
health. It is well known that this simple strategy can reverse even
unshackled

severe,

to

advanced heart disease.

The

major diseases
diseases, joint diseases,
and

even

have

cancer,

of

at

our

time,

including lung diseases,

metabolic diseases, autoimmune diseases,
their

roots

major

obstacles that have been

placed as burdens upon the healing system.
and healing occurs because now the healing
the body to its natural state of health.

Why

the

Healing System

Sometimes, what

Remove these

burdens,

system is free

to restore

Has Been Overlooked

looking for is right under our noses. This is
the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system. Until recently, we

we are

exactly

the

missed

something

case

heart

with

very fundamental and essential about how

our

Your

Healing System

15

and Your Natural State of Health

intelligent, functional, whole living systems.
we failed to recognize the significance of the

bodies work

as

consequence,

As

a

most

important system in our entire bodies.
The body’s healing system has been overlooked until now for a
number of reasons. The primary reason is that conventional medical
science focuses, for the

body,
has

o

rather than

an

impact

on

part,

its function,

or

medicine in these

on

on

nesses

structure

and form of the

how the

This view

body works.
significant ways:
more

on

and form

structure

function (how the body works), and so diseases and ill
viewed as localized problems within specific
are

anatomical

of the

areas

whole, the

arately

the

on

Conventional medicine focuses

than

body.

Instead of

one

working

unit

as a

is viewed

as many individual parts working sep
body
and surgery is often seen as the ultimate treatment for

these separate
o

most

problems.

Conventional medicine has

neglected to acknowledge the cen
tral role that energy plays in the body’s growth, development,
sustenance, and healing. Not recognizing that energy is the real,
active, life-promoting, fundamental principle in our bodies,
doctors

again tend

once

to

focus

more on structure

and form

healing system is not confined to one
body is a functional system based on the
of
flow and movement
energies within it. The body directs heal
than

on

function. But the

anatomical

area.

ing

to

energy

water

The

where it is needed, much like

from the end of his hose

to

help

put

a

fireman directs

out a

fire.

part of scientific research has been devoted to the study
of external agents of disease, such as bacteria and viruses, and the

A

large

development

of specific

drugs,

This research has directed

o

A

our

large

For the

amount

which seeks

to

Genetic defects

caused

awareness

as

antibiotics,

to

away from the

kill them.

body’s

inner

part, this focus has left us ignorant about
bodies work and how they heal themselves.

genetic
engineering through the removal of defective genes, while
important for certain rare diseases, completely bypasses the
importance of discovering how the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system can
help overcome the majority of diseases.
The Growth of
Another

Specialties

significant

in Medicine

that the

reason

looked is the tremendous

to cure

healing

system has been

of information

over

from

so
coming
many different specialty fields in medicine today. Specialists, like
surgeons, tend to treat each system of the body as a separate entity,

part of a unified whole.
example, we now have cardiology

rather than
For

amount

as

to

study

and

treat

the

dermatology to study and treat the skin; neurology for the
nerves; endocrinology for the glands; nephrology for the kidneys; pul
monology for the lungs; rheumatology for the joints; orthopedics for
the bones and muscles; podiatry for the feet; otolaryngology for the
ears, nose, and throat; urology for the bladder and related organs;
and so on. Because the healing system is integrated within the struc
heart;

and function of all the other systems of the

ture

ization has caused
continue

to

us to see

only fragments

body, overspecial

of its existence while

we

of its total presence and significance.
focuses on the study of only one system within

remain

Each

unaware

specialty
body, and communication among the various specialty
fields is often lacking. As a result, we physicians have developed a
type of tunnel vision that prevents us from seeing the big picture,
and organizing and sorting all of this specialized information into
one complete, whole system. At times, it appears the left hand does
nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what the right hand is doing. This is a major flaw of
the human

modern medicine.

The

Healing System

Although
discovery,

many

in

Is Not

people regard

fact,

a

the

New

Discovery

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing

system

as a recent

ancient cultures and healers from other parts of the

Your

world have

17

and Your Natural State of Health

Healing System

long known about

it. Within the

healing communities

of

these societies, whose members lived in close
her wisdom, the existence of

respected
been challenged.
need

we

them

as

new

It is

ideas

proximity to nature and
healing system has never
age of skepticism, in which

a

oniy in our modern
be scientifically proven

to

before

we can

accept

fact, that the role of the

today,

Even

healing system has been questioned.
practitioners of the healing arts living abroad

most

operate from the premise that our bodies are linked to nature,
and that the body’s healing system works with the same intelligent
organizational principles that can be found in nature. Further, they

believe that

by studying these natural principles, we can discover
and utilize important, natural, gentle, and supportive modalities
that work in harmony with this healing system to help restore
and maintain our health. Healing can occur when we work with,
not against, the forces of nature that exist within the human body.
When confronted with a sick patient, any physician who under
stands the true value of the healing system will try to understand how
the body’s natural forces of health became unbalanced in the first
place. What caused the body to become less orderly and more
chaotic, and

to

fall

out

of its natural balanced

state

of health and into

of disease? Factors such

state
as stress, poor sleeping habits, poor
diet, lack of regular exercise, problems at work or working too much,
turmoil at home, erratic social relationships, mental and emotional
conflict, and so on, are all possibilities. Discovering and investigating
a

these factors is critical for
harmful

the

Removing

healing system

do its

to

Western medical science’s

stages, and

early

me

so

sign

Once the
to

health

these obstacles and harmful forces allows

job

more

discovery

to

be

effectively.

of the

expected

body’s healing

system is still in its

of any

new

field of scientific

explo

explain.

In the field of astronomy, when

the first

treatment outcome.

much of the evidence for its existence is indirect. This

situation, however, is
ration. Let

successful

have been identified, the road back

culprits

becomes clearer.

a

of its existence is often

is first

discovered,

glimpsed through observing

its influence

a new star or

planet

18

Your

the behavior and

on

often be detected with the

culations and

closer look

a

et comes

galaxies, have

even

through

into clear focus and is

universe, if

don’t

we

the

telescope, until

actually

look for

Many

seen.

been discovered in this

actively

neighbor.
of

help

high-

a

entity, based

new

orbital motions, result in careful cal

densit>~ gravitational fields, and

mass,

and

can

Precise mathematical data about the

powered telescope.
on

characteristics of its closest known

orbiting

Here, motion abnormalities

Extraordinary Healing System

plan

new star or

and

new stars

manner.

something, the

the

In the

planets,
of the

vastness

chances of

finding

it

are

own:

the

almost nil.
Within

our

bodies also exists

system. Because

healing

an

entire,

have spent

we

universe of its

vast

efforts

more

investigating

external

agents of disease and haven’t been actively looking for this internal system,
we

haven’t amassed

tremendous effect
we

of

great deal of information about it. The

a

on us

and how

our

healing system’s

bodies function is clear,

though

even

don’t have scientific evidence yet of its existence. Given the limitations
our current

difficult
even

if

If

energy and function, the

on

evaluate in all its

accurately

to

had been

we

more

shift the

we can

and mindset, which focus

technologies

and less

structures

healing

exquisite

anatomical

system would still be

detail and

sophistication,

for it.

aggressively looking

current

more on

focus of scientific

exploration

away from the

various bacteria and viruses and the

pharmaceutical weapons produced to
quick-fix surgical solutions, away from toxic

neutralize them, away from
chemicals

suspect
on

to

poison

cause

the

understanding

our

beyond

to

and away from “bad

majority

of

how

bodies know how

will be much further

systems

malignancies,

our

along

in

our

other

learning

problems,

how

to

to

that

and instead focus

cooperate with

long

and

our

we

more

heal themselves, then

prevent illness, heal diseases, and enjoy

our current

genes”

we

healing

healthy

lives

expectations.

Centenarians
of Your

Living Examples
In nature, each

potential
example, most
mum

live

to a

living species
age

to

a

programmed lifespan,

which members of that

insects, such

maximum of

has

Healing System

only

as

a

maxi

live. For

gnats, and butterflies,
weeks. For dogs, the lifespan

mosquitoes,

one to two

species

can

Your

Healing System

19

and Your Natural State of Health

roughly 10 tol2 years. For great white sharks, it is 300 years. For
reptiles, such as desert tortoises, it is 400 years. For certain
trees, such as the Giant Sequoias of Northern California, the life
is

certain

span ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 years. For humans, the maximum
potential lifespan is about 100 years.

If a group of people ever demonstrated the human body’s natural
ability to stay healthy, and the existence of its healing system, that
group is the centenarians, who,

by definition, are people who have
lived to and beyond 100 years of age. Surprisingly, according to recent
demographic surveys, the fastest growing segment of the U.S. popu
lation is people over the age of 100. Twenty years ago in the U.S.,
there were 6,200 reported centenarians. Today, there are more than
64,000 centenarians in the U.S. alone. People today are more healthconscious than they were 20 years ago, so they are better at cooperat
ing with and strengthening their healing systems. This change has
enabled more people to live longer. Without the body’s incredible
ability to heal itself and return to its natural state of health over and
over again, how is it possible for so many people to live so long?
By and large, centenarians have learned how to cooperate with
their healing systems to reap and enjoy their maximum allotment of
time on this earth. And most did it while staying active and main
taining their health until the very end. Looking at their lifestyles,
and not merely their genes, we can learn a lot about the many ways
that we too can cooperate and work with our healing systems.
Most centenarians I have met, although they are all unique indi
viduals with their own personal stories, share a common bond in
how they have lived their lives. Most have eaten moderately, kept
active, enjoyed good sleep, rested when necessary, stayed involved
with friends and family, and generally enjoyed life. Although their
diets, lifestyles, and genes have differed, many have had to endure
extreme hardships over the course of their long lives, including the
loss of their closest loved ones and family members. Still, most of
these people have exhibited what I would call a “lighthearted atti
tude.” It’s

and

a

oldest

rare to meet a

smile

living

years of age.
come to

on

his

or

centenarian without

her face. An

Western woman,

a

example

French

she had lost her

Although
rely on a wheelchair,

she had

great sense of humor
of this was the world’s
a

woman

eyesight

who lived
and

just quit smoking

to

122

recently

had

at

the age of

20

Your

121! ‘When interviewed about the

Extraordinary Healing System

of her

she

replied
only thing she knew was that “I only have one wrinkle on my
entire body, and I’m sitting on it!” This kind of light-hearted attitude
typifies those who have reached the age of 100 or beyond.
The well-known comedian George Burns lived to be more than
100 years old, and he continued to perform and act in movies until
his passing. He never stopped smoking cigars; more importantly, he
also never stopped smiling and telling jokes! His positive attitude
helped to strengthen his healing system and bring his body back to
secrets

longevity,

that the

its natural

state

of health after illness.

delightful 95-year-old woman who was dressed
in a hot-pink outfit, sunglasses, and a shell necklace, and who had a
big smile on her face, despite the fact that she had a large gash on
her leg, which prompted her visit to me. She was taking a cruise and
had stepped off the ship for a day’s shopping in Hawaii. When she
removed her sunglasses, I saw a pair of youthful, sparkling, blue eyes
that easily revealed her carefree, optimistic attitude toward life. After
several minutes of chatting as I attended to her wound, she asked
whether I could speed things up. “Why?” I asked.
“Because my older sister is in your waiting room, and I don’t
want to keep her waiting. We only have one day on your island, and
I promised to go bodysurfing with her!”
When I stepped out into the waiting room, I saw her sister,
three years her elder. She was also vibrant and smiling, and dressed
in a matching red outfit with a straw hat!
Many people come into my office and tell me that they are “get
ting old and falling apart!” I have had people in their thirties and
forties tell me this. Conversely, I have seen many other patients who
are learning how to surf and water ski at the age of 70, others who
are taking yoga in their eighties and are more supple and graceful
than people less than half their age, and still others who are dancing
and gardening daily well into their nineties. Youth and health appear
I

to

be

once

treated

more

connected

a

to our states

of mind, and reflect

our

attitudes

more than pure chronology. A positive attitude and a zest for life
critical for enhancing and fortifying your healing system.

are

lesson from the centenarians, and discover the many
ways that you too can enjoy a long, healthy, and rewarding life, free
from disease and debility, way beyond your present expectations, by
Take

a

Your

Healing System

21

and Your Natural State of Health

learning to cooperate with your healing
honoring your natural state of health.

system, and

respecting

and

ClosingThoughts onYour Healing
System and Your Natural State of Health
Health is your normal and natural state. This condition is founded
on universal biological principles that apply to all living species, not

programmed into the DNA of every cell in
your body and is the reason why the human species has been able to
flourish and survive from one generation to the next for thousands
of years. Health is the reason you are alive today. The maximum
average potential lifespan for a human being is 100 years or more.
humans. Health is

just

Because your natural state is health, any deviation from this natural
state represents an unnatural condition. You are actually programmed

for

good

health the

day you

Disease and illness

not

are

conceived.

only

are

undesirable conditions, but

fundamentally unnatural and abnormal. Their exis
tence represents a departure from the natural laws that govern
normal biological processes on earth. When you become ill, it usu
ally means that unnatural, harmful, unhealthy forces have been
imposed upon your body that cause it to become temporarily imbal
anced and disordered. Restoring order and balance returns your
body to its natural state of health. This is the job of your extraordi
nary healing system, which can be thought of as the guardian of
your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health.
Even though challenges and difficulties may seem to be an
almost daily occurrence, your body can rise to meet these challenges
and difficulties because it has an extraordinary healing system that
has been designed to sustain, repair, and correct imbalances and
problems, naturally and automatically. At times, disease may appear
overwhelming and all-encompassing, but your healing system can
help your body bounce back to reclaim its natural state of health,
they

also

even

in the face of death, and

all

are

at

times when you have abandoned

hope. Through your healing system, your body possesses an
uncanny natural resiliency, like a buoy floating in the sea, to right
itself in the midst of lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most devastating tempests.

22

Your

In the

next

system in action,

Extraordinary Healing System

chapter, you will get a closer look at your healing
including the opportunity to examine the evidence

for its existence, and

to

understand what this system does and how
why learning to cooperate with your

you think about the number of threats and insults your
sustains over the course of a lifetime, the fact that it can remain

body
healthy at all is truly amazing. To accomplish this incredible task, you
need a single system in your body that can supervise and direct all the
other systems into a unified, efficient, orchestrated healing response

for your protection and the preservation of your natural state of
health. That single, supervisory system is your healing system.
system not only maintains your natural state of
health, but whenever you are sick or injured, or whenever your
Your

healing

health is threatened, it also is in

charge of damage control. It moni
tors and supervises all processes of repair, growth, and restoration of
health and normal functioning of your body’s cells, tissues, and
organs. In fact, you wouldn’t be alive today if it weren’t for your
body’s remarkable healing system.
Illness or injury can strike at any time, and so your body needs
a system it can count on to safeguard its health, 24 hours a day, 7
days a week, 365 days a year. In this regard, your body’s healing
system is a tireless workhorse because it never sleeps or even snoozes.
It cannot even afford the luxury of a catnap. It remains alert at all
times, ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. Like a 911
emergency-response, paramedic rescue crew, your healing system is

24

on

Your

call

time off for sick leave, vacations,

or even

behavior. It also has tremendous endurance and stamina, and

good
it

continuouslyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;no

Extraordinary Healing System

operational for up to
healing system permeates

remain

can

Your

body;

it is

be

cannot

not

confined

to

any

surgically removed,
is the

one

100 years,

longer.

every organ and tissue in your
structure or specific location. It

or even

with

or even

visibly
other

seen on an

X-ray,

CAT

body.
healthy, it is difficult to even know that such a system
exists; however, during times of injury or illness, as your body mounts
a healing response, evidence of its existence becomes quite apparent.
Although your healing system is arguably the most important
system in your body, you probably have never heard about it before,
or, if you have, the information was sparse. Although you may be
familiar with the other systems in your body, such as the digestive,
respiratory, circulatory, nervous, and immune systems, you probably
are reading about the healing system for the very first time. In fact,
you may be confusing your healing system with your immune
system right now, as many people do.
scan,

or

MRI,

When you

as

case

most

structures

in your

are

Differences Between Your

Healing System

and Your Immune

System

healing system, they often confuse it
with the immune system. Even though on one level the two systems
may be difficult to tell apart because they work together in a coop
erative effort, on another level they are two very different systems
that serve entirely different purposes.
When

people

first hear of the

The fundamental difference between the

two

systems is that

your immune system is concerned with

defending your body against
infections, while your healing system is responsible for repairing
tissue damage from injuries or illnesses, and restoring your body to
its natural state of health. Your immune systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s focus is largely on
attacking and protecting your body from foreign invaders. Your
healing system focuses more on healing, growth, regeneration,
restoration of

For
is

an

function, and maintaining health.

example,

if you

infection in the

were to come

down with bronchitis, which

respiratory system,

your immune system would

Your

Heating System

25

in Action

be

expected to attack and eliminate the offending organisms that are
causing the infection. However, if you were injured in a car accident
and broke your arm, your healing system would be called upon to

heal your injuries. Your immune system would not become involved
because typically there is no infection with a broken bone. The

mending of the broken bone would be a specific function of your
healing system.
Similarly, if you had a heart attack, your healing system would
immediately become activated. A heart attack is not caused by an
infection, and so healing from it does not involve your immune sys
tem, but rather your healing system. After a heart attack, your heal
ing system repairs the damage to your heart muscle while it restores
normal functioning to your heart.
When you understand that most diseases and injuries are not
caused by infection, the distinction between your healing system
and your immune system becomes clearer, and the unique role of
your healing system becomes much more significant.
All of this having been said, be aware that there are times when
the division of labor between your immune system and healing sys
tem is not so clear. Your healing system and immune system work
together and cooperate with each other to keep you healthy. For
example, if your body has sustained damage from an infection, your
healing system and immune system will work side by side to repair
the damage as they fight against, neutralize, and remove the infec
tious agents to prevent further damage to your body. Your immune
system will attack the infection that caused the problem, and your
healing system will actually repair the damage the infection caused
to your body.

Listening

to

Your

Healing System

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural state is good health, your physical needs
are actually quite simple. However, when these needs are not being
met, your body is not shy about giving warning signs to prompt you
into taking immediate corrective action. When situations of urgency
arise, or when you are not healthy, your body, through its commu
nications system, which works closely with your healing system, will
Because your

26

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

let you know immediately. For your healing system to repair, restore,
and sustain your body most effectively, you must learn how to listen

healing system when it talks to you.
For instance, when your water reserves become low, and there is
danger of dehydration, your thirst mechanism kicks in, urging you
to

your

drink. When your body is low on energy and you need more calo
ries, your hunger drive is activated, prompting you to eat. When you
need sleep or rest, you will begin to yawn, and your eyes will feel

to

heavy; urging

you

lie down. When you become chilled in cold
will begin to shiver, forcing you to put on a

to

body
jacket, or to seek shelter. If you eat foods that are too rich
or too spicy, or the wrong combination of foods, you’ll feel nauseous
and might possibly even regurgitate. All these sensations and
responses are part of your body’s intelligence and communications
network, which your healing system monitors and supervises to help

weather,

your

sweater or

restore

normal function and maintain your natural

Two Essential Roles of Your
Your

healing system

tant

role, much like

vises, organizes, and
while he overlooks

functions in
a

foreman

two
at a

state

Healing System

critical ways. In its first impor
large building site who super

dispatches workers, equipment,
construction

of health.

and

machinery
healing system

a
project, your
meticulously monitors, surveys, and observes each and every part of
your body to ensure that all organs and tissues remain healthy and
function smoothly. It facilitates communication between your body’s

various systems and their

respective

cells and tissues. It monitors

body’s complex internal environment, where literally millions
of powerful chemical reactions occur each day. Your healing system
troubleshoots problems anywhere in your body. Just like a mother
who cares for and looks after her children, your healing system in its
protective and nurturing role safeguards the integrity of your entire
body, helping maintain its natural state of health.
In its second vital role, your healing system functions like an
emergency-response paramedic crew, jumping into action whenever
there is a threat to your health. In this more active phase, your heal
ing system is able to perform a wide range of diverse functions, such
your

Your

Healing System

27

in Action

dispatching nerve messages and impulses; mobilizing immune
and inflammatory cells; coordinating the release of powerful chem
icals that can raise body temperature, dilate or constrict blood ves
sels, increase or decrease blood flow to specific areas; and performing
many other vital functions. Your healing system directs the activities
of the other systems in your body to cooperate with each other in
providing a unified, concerted, and effective healing response.
In its first role, you may not even be aware of your body’s heal
as

system as it goes about the business of its crucial surveillance
work silently and without much fanfare. In the second role, howev

ing

the presence of your healing system is much
with specific changes that occur in your body
er,

more
as

a

noticeable,

result of its

actions. The dual

supervisory and emergency-response roles that
your healing system plays in the general functioning of all the sys
tems and structures in your body makes it the most powerful and
important system in your body.

How Your

Healing System Works

Understanding how your healing system functions requires a differ
ent way of thinking about how your body works. Although doing so
may seem difficult at first, if you think of your body in terms of
energy and function, rather than in terms of matter, structure, and
form, it will all make perfect sense. Thinking in terms of energy does
not ignore or nullify the existence of certain structures within your

body; rather,

this view

you

a

deeper

look into the

dynamic
dynamic forces become
unbalanced, you can easily see how problems that create illnesses
and diseases in your body arise. Armed with this knowledge and
insight, you will be able to more effectively remedy these problems
by working with, rather than against, your healing system. Let’s
gives

forces that govern your health. When these

examine

Al

a case

cut

his

that illustrates this

finger

with

etables. At first, there

a

was

point.

kitchen knife while he
no

blood

at

slicing
imagined

was

all, and he

veg

that

maybe it didn’t really happen, and that he’d get off easy. Then, as the
first signs of blood began to ooze out of the wound, he realized the
puncture was deep. In no time, the bleeding became profuse. Pain,

28

Your

delayed

for several seconds,

soon

Extraordinary Healing System

began to pulsate and throb through
applied pressure to prevent his

and entire hand. Al

his

fingertip
spilling onto the floor. After half an hour, he noticed the
slowed. An hour later, it eventually stopped.
had
bleeding
From the very beginning of this incident, and over the course of
the next several days, Al’s healing system was busy activating a heal
ing response that includes
out

blood from

o

o

system, which first responds with messages of pain
Al an injury has occurred.

The

nervous

that

warn

The

complex

mechanisms of blood

clotting,

which

are a

sophis

ticated interaction of hormones, enzymes, and numerous chem
icals and cells within the circulatory system. These components

naturally sticky and join together to seal
protect the body from further blood loss.
are

off the wound

to

o

deeper tissues, and various cells, which
weave themselves together to form a transitional, intermediate
layer of skin and fill in the gap created by the wound.

o

The formation of a scab, which protects the deeper, more sensitive
layers of new skin and tissues as the healing process continues.

The

layers

of the skin,

When the scab
manufactures

new

Al’s

healing system miraculously
skin where the old skin had been completely sev

sloughs off,

finger looks the way it did before his
if nothing had happened at all.
though Al’s injury is a relatively simple one, if you look

ered. After several weeks, Al’s

injury,

as

Even

the sequence of events, the various systems and components
involved in the healing of his wound, and the synchronized flow of
at

during the entire healing process, you start to
develop an appreciation for the degree of complexity and precision,
and the incredible organization, speed, and efficiency your healing
system requires to perform this specific task.
Keep in mind that your healing system supervises and coordi
nates all healing responses in your body, including illnesses and
injuries that are far more complex and serious than Al’s injury. And
even though your healing system may appear to be hidden and dif
ficult to pinpoint within any given part of your body, you can begin
energy and

movement

Your

Healing System

29

in Action

understand the function and purpose of this amazing system by
observing its powerful, swift, dynamic and efficient movements, and
to

viewing the results of its actions. The subtle and dynamic aspect of
your healing system is one of the reasons it has not been more wide
ly recognized, acknowledged, and accepted until just recently.

The immune system and the
tems, and

The

healing system

throughout

the

body

organ, tissue, and cell in your
more

than the immune system,

body.

to one

with your

particular

area

of the

healing system

and

can

system that is concerned with

body.

It is also

more

powerful,

being

body, and operates

on

branches,
the

Fortunately,

thought

preventing
was

of

and

poorly

as an

microscop

aspect of the

eradicating

have learned

more

about

our

resources,

within the realm of

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

healing

infections from

understood and

with the shift of funds and
to

is not

fact, your immune system collaborates

be

The immune system also

directed from without

imagined

dynamic,

more

much importance in the practice of modern medicine until the
of AIDS.

sys

permeating every

immune system has many

healing system, the

ic level of cells and biochemicals. In

the

dynamic

diversified in its functions and tasks than your immune system.

Like the
limited

both subtle and

although they often work together, they serve different functions.
healing system is even more subtle and more widespread in its dis

tribution

and

are

not

given

discovery

and research

our own

bodies,

natural defense system than

we

we ever

existed.

Your

Healing System and the
Other Systems in Your Body

special properties and functions of
other systems in your body, integrating and supervising their activi
ties into one organized, efficient healing response. To understand
this more clearly, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s see what happens when you accidentally touch
a hot electric iron and burn yourself.
Imagine an iron that is plugged into an electrical socket, sitting
upright on the ironing board, and inadvertently left on for half a

Your

healing

system utilizes the

30

Your

day. When you discover
tally touch the very hot
As

soon as

the iron and try
bottom.

Extraordinary Healing System

put it away, you acciden

to

you touch the hot iron and hear the

of your flesh

feel

sizzling

sound

pain you immedi
the incredible burning

burning, you instantaneously
ately jerk your hand back. In addition to
pain, within a matter of minutes, you begin to notice blisters form
ing on your fingers and hands in the places that came in contact
with the iron. From the vantage point of what is going on inside of
your body, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s take a closer look at what is happening, step by step,
as your healing system springs into action:
Step

1

Your

healing

hot iron,

as

as

system is immediately activated when you touch the
the pain sensors in your fingers and hand send a signal

the brain

through your nervous system. Your nervous system,
working with your healing system, initiates a reflex response in the
muscles of your arm to contract the arm, pulling it away to prevent
further contact with the hot iron, which prevents further injury.
to

Step

2

Almost

immediately,

in collaboration with the

skin,

your

healing

system coordinates a response that first results in redness or inflam
mation as tiny blood vessels are directed to increase blood flow to

the

area

Step

of the scorched skin.

3

Specialized

cells known

as

macrophages, along

with red blood cells,

white blood cells, oxygen, and other essential nutrients, are pumped
into the bloodstream and directed to the injury site to help nourish,

fortify,

Step

and support the

processes.

4

Shortly thereafter,
ters at

ing

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s repair

the skin

secretes

the burn sites. The blisters

specific

serve

functions. First, the fluid-filled

fluids

several

sacs act

to

help

form blis

protective and

heal

like shock absorbers

to

protect the raw, injured skin that lies underneath. They also act as
sealed barriers against the possibility of infection. The fluid inside
the blisters also contains nutrients

to

help

nourish and feed the

new

Your

layer

31

in Action

Healing System

of skin that will form underneath. Antibodies and immune

by the immune system in this fluid.
under the direction of the healing sys

cells also have been mobilized
These mechanisms also

are

ward off any microorganisms that might cause infection. In
addition, the body releases other important chemicals to cooperate
in the healing response.
tem, to

Step

5

healing response well under way, new cells, fluids, and
chemicals are continuously pumped in and out of the burn site over
the course of the next several days and weeks; the pain begins to sub
side and the new skin growth accelerates.

With the

Step

6

Soon, the blisters
into the

body,
ously injured old

Step

gradually

with

shrink

skin

new

as

arising

the fluid is reabsorbed back

to

take the

place

of the

previ

skin.

7

healing mechanisms are activated on the microscopic
finish the job, and, if all goes well, not even a scar will be

Continued
level

to

present where the new skin has grown back.
Even with a simple injury such as a minor
you

can see

that

a

lot

more

is

going

on

in your

second-degree burn,
body beneath the sur

the eye. As with the more serious and com
that occur within your body, again it is clear that

face of the skin than

meets

plicated problems
the body needs a single system that can supervise and direct all the
other key systems into one orchestrated and efficient healing response
for the protection, self-preservation, and health of your body. This is
the incredible job that your healing system does for you.

Healing System Responses
Symptoms of Disease
A New

When

our

changes

Way

of Thinking AboutYour Health

healing system

that

occur

in

vs.

our

initially activated, we might confuse the
body, which are normal healing responses,
is

32

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

with symptoms of a particular disease. In fact, this is the common
mistake most people make, including doctors and the medical pro

general. Again, until very recently, our culture has been
approach to understanding health and heal
ing, and so we have remained largely ignorant of the healing system
and how our bodies continually strive to correct imbalances and
keep us healthy.
When things begin to change in our bodies, we automatically
assume we are sick, and that something is dreadfully wrong. If our
bodies begin to reflect imbalance and function abnormally, if there
is some discomfort or pain, our first assumption is most likely that
we are becoming sick or that we have an allergy. This is because we
fession in

disease-oriented in its

trying to account for our symptoms. This is a natural and nor
mal interpretation of what is happening with our bodies.
Rather than jumping to the conclusion that something is wrong
with your body, first try to understand how your healing system may
be responding appropriately to correct an imbalance that has
occurred. Let me explain what I mean.
Consider sneezing, for example. We usually think of sneezing as
a symptom of the common cold, or the beginning of an allergy~ In
rea1ity~ sneezing is a normal healing-system response to expel foreign
debris, flush out irritants, remove potential pathogens, rid the body
of disease, and help the body maintain its integrity. Sneezing also is
a protective mechanism that helps to prevent the further advance of
unwanted foreign invaders into the deeper, more delicate structures
of the respiratory system, such as our lungs and sinuses, and is
another common way that our healing systems safeguard our health.
In addition to sneezing, most people, including doctors, confuse
many other common healing responses with symptoms of a disease.
These responses include the following:
are

o

Coughing.

Also considered

a

symptom of a

respiratory

illness

or

a definitive response from your healing
condition, coughing
system to expel unwanted debris and invading microorganisms

is

penetrated deeper into the respiratory system and are
threatening to cause damage to your lungs. In medical circles, a
good cough is known as a productive cough in that it success
fully brings up phlegm, mucous, microorganisms, and infectious
that have

Your

Healing System

33

in Action

debris, which effectively clears the airways and makes for easier

breathing. Coughing can be powerful; the speed at which for
eign particles and debris exit the lungs with a cough has been
clocked at approximately 660 mph, about the speed of an F4
Phantom fighter aircraft.
•

Diarrhea.

Usually considered a symptom of an
a healing response that your body

diarrhea is

intestinal disease,
eliminate

uses to

toxins and contaminated material from your colon and

intestines. Diarrhea is fast and

efficient, and it

large

flush

out
helps to
A
intestinal
number
of
tract.
offending
irritating
your
elimi
intestinal
diseases
be
or problems can
potentially serious
nated this way. Suppressing diarrhea through artificial medica
tions can be dangerous, and doing so often backfires. When you
clog up your body’s natural eliminative processes through the
suppression of diarrhea, harmful microorganisms have nowhere
to go but further inside your body, where they can invade your

what is

liver

or

there

or

bloodstream and

are

times when

cause more

too

serious illness. Of

much fluid and

course,

loss from

electrolyte

diarrhea may require medical intervention. However, by seeing
diarrhea as a response of your healing system, and seeking out
to

ways

natural

cooperate with that system, you can often make simple,
adjustments to restore balance and health to your body.

These may include drinking more fluids, avoiding irritating
foods and substances, and managing stress, which can be harm
ful

to

your intestines and

closely
a

at

digestive system. (We will
chapters that follow.)

Fainting. Fainting

occurs

when

sciousness and falls down. The
serious

of

a

to

look

more

these factors in the

benign,

a

person

temporarily

lack of blood flow

to

of fainting

loses

con

range from
but the loss of consciousness is usually due to
causes

can

the head and brain.

Falling

down

while

fainting represents a compensatory response from your
body’s healing system. When the body has fallen and lies flat on
the ground in a horizontal position, blood flow and oxygen to
the brain increase, which
instances of

underlying

fainting

diseases

sions when serious

are

or

can

often

restore

consciousness. Most

totally benign, especially

if

no

conditions exist. However, there

underlying

serious

are occa

disease is present, and you will

34

Your

need

be

to

brought

correct treatment

cipitated
U

U

the

is

to

fainting,

the

hospital

deal with the

to

not

just

with

Extraordinary Healing System

and treated. However, the

underlying causes
the fainting itself.

that pre

Commonly associated with an infection, fever is your
healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way of heating your body up to kill offending
organisms, most of which are extremely temperature sensitive
and cannot tolerate excessive heat. Additionally, fever induces
sweating, which helps the body eliminate toxins more rapidly.
Learning to work with a fever through continuous rehydration
(drinking plenty of water), rather than suppressing a fever with
artificial medications, will support your healing system and
result in a faster, more thorough healing response. Even at times
when medical suppression of a fever may be necessary, fluid
intake should be encouraged. With any fever, it is prudent to
look for the underlying causes of the fever and to treat these, not
just suppress the fever. Doing this works with your healing sys
tem to help restore health and balance to your body.
Fever.

Nausea. Nausea

occurs

in the small intestines and

stomach, and

specific response from your healing system that protects
your body from more food entering into it. When you feel nau
seous, you have lost your appetite for food. Your healing system
does this when your body needs to limit solid food intake.
Nausea occurs when you have a high fever and are in need of
it is

a

lots of fluids,

or

when you have

a

stomach virus

solid foods would make these conditions

helps

to conserve

tract so

it

can

ulcer, and

Nausea also

energy and frees blood flow from the

be rerouted

to

greater immediate need for
0

or an

worse.

other

healing

areas

of the

body

digestive

that have

a

energy.

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system, working with your immune
system, produces pus, an unpleasant, smelly, yellowish sub
stance, to help eliminate foreign material, both large and small.
Pus commonly occurs with infection. In the case of a splinter or
foreign body in the skin, your healing system will form a pus
pocket to wall off the splinter, separating it from the rest of your
body. Your healing system will attempt to digest and dissolve the
splinter or foreign object; if this proves difficult, it will try to
push the splinter out of the skin. In addition to fluids secreted

Pus. Your

Your

Healing System

to

flush

out

35

in Action

microorganisms

white blood cells and

and

pus contains

enzymes that break down and
of a bacterial infection in any

digestive

material. In the

foreign debris,

digest foreign
part of the body, the pus produced will attempt to kill
digest the bacteria while it flushes out the infection.
s

Runny
of the

nose

and nasal

cold

case

congestion. Usually considered

allergies,
actually specific responses

common

or

a

nose

runny

off and

symptoms

and nasal conges

from your

body’s healing sys
phlegm, and congestion
are your healing system’s way of attempting to flush out any
offending organisms or foreign particles that may have invaded
the entrance to your respiratory system. Although attempting to
suppress these healing responses with nasal decongestants and
other drugs gives temporary relief, doing so often backfires; it
can prolong an illness and even make things worse. Because the
pharmaceutical agents tend to dry up the secretions to eliminate
symptoms, they work against the natural processes of your
body’s healing system to eliminate harmful substances.
*

tion

are

tem.

The increased secretions,

mucous,

Swelling and redness. The first visible signs at the site of any
injury, trauma, or infection in the body, swelling and redness,
too, are specific responses of your healing system. ‘Whether
caused by a bruise, a contusion, a sprain, a fracture, or an infec
tion, swelling is the result of increased fluids from the lymphatic
system, leaky blood vessels, and other soft tissues. The fluid helps
immobilize the site and
ther

injury to

the

area.

serves as a

shock absorber

Redness,•known

as

to

prevent fur

inflammation,

is often

accompanied by pain and represents increased blood flow to the
area. Inflammation is a complex response from your healing sys
working with your immune system, to bring important cells
and powerful chemicals to the injured area to help remove tox
ins, repair damaged tissues, and speed healing.
tem,

*

Tearing of the
to

what

material

eyes.
in

occurs
or

is

Tearing
a

a

specific healing response similar
Tearing helps to flush foreign

nose.

runny

microorganisms

out

of the delicate and sensitive

sur

faces of the eyes. Sometimes, when infection or irritation is
extreme, the eyes will remain glued shut because the tears and
secretions have dried up.

Keeping

the

eyelids glued

shut is

a

36

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

further attempt of the healing system
additional injury or damage.
o

to

protect the eyes from

mechanism that your healing
eliminate contaminated or noxious material that

Vomiting. Vomiting

is

a

protective

system uses to
has somehow entered into your stomach and small intestines.
Vomiting is a fast, efficient, and powerful way for your body to
rid itself of toxins or other harmful substances. After you have
eaten

contaminated food,

occur

to

as

in food

poisoning, vomiting

will

expel infectious organisms as well as unwanted food
People usually report feeling much better after they

and toxins.

have vomited in these instances. If you have overeaten, eaten
foods that are too rich, or drunk too much coffee or alcohol,
which

act as

excess,
on

the

intestinal irritants and toxins when

vomiting

digestive

will

occur to

system and

clean

out

theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re

taken in

and reduce the burden

body.

Although initially you may think these responses are associated
only with the individual systems within the body, such as coughing
and the respiratory system, or vomiting and the gastrointestinal
system, remember that it is the healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s presence within and
its supervisory role over these systems that actually causes these
responses. Keep in mind that the healing system is not a separate
anatomical system. It is a functional, energetic, intelligent system
that permeates every single system in your body.
As you read the rest of this book, think about your body, your
bodily sensations, and any changes that are occurring in your body
as well-measured responses produced by your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system.
responses that are intended to correct imbalances
you maintain your natural state of health, rather than

problems for you. Instead, trust that your heal
ing system is making necessary physiological adjustments to correct
imbalances and restore your body to its natural state of health.
I realize this perspective may be a radical departure from how you
currently view your body and your health; however, learning to do
even

if these

are

this will make

a

real

significant difference

in your health. If you

can

focus

Your

less

Healing System

on

disease and

and

body,

more on

37

in Action

health, less

more on

what is

functioning

what is wrong with your
properly; if you can turn your
on

attention away from the fear of external

causes of disease and agents
and
instead look with confi
beyond your control,
the hidden treasure chest of healing resources that lies within

of disease that lie
dence

to

you will be able

body,

own

your very

health. If you

recognize the many ways your healing
system responds to challenges, your dependence on drugs and doctors
will be lessened, and the quality of your life will be vastly improved.

You will

can

gain

system. Your
~

Empowers

you

to

discover and make

that lie within your

own

of the

use

energies and efforts within your

blaming your

discomfort

or

be

can

disease

on

external

you

~

supply

of

healing

body

causes

and away from

and forces

beyond

that

can

be harmful

to

well-being.
to

take greater

your diet and

Lessens your

own

thinking

responsibility

understand the connection between your

including

vast

disempowering.

Shifts your focus away from fear-based

Empowers

healing

body.

Directs your

your health and
~

the responses of your

by recognizing

system

your control, which
~

to

great deal

healing

resources

~

a

learn

reap the benefits of superior

to

lifest~â&#x20AC;&#x2122;le, and

dependence

on

for your life, and
own

actions and

helps

you

thoughts,

your health.

doctors,

drugs, and

external agents of

treat

ment.
~

your confidence in your

Improves

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability

to

healthy

and

problem

you

remain

heal itself.
~

Helps
might

You

in

can see

healing

planning

the treatment and

healing

of any health

face.
that the benefits of

system and

working

recognizing

with it will have

the power of your remarkable
a

huge, positive impact

on

your

health and your life.
Note: As you are learning this new way of thinking about your body do not neglect to see your
doctor if any physical discomfort or pain increases or does not go away on its own.Your doctor
can be a valuable aid and support for your healing system.

38

Your

Clinical Evidence of Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Healing System

at

Work

healing responses in general, and we’ve seen
several different examples of the healing system at work to help heal
superficial injuries. Now let’s move deeper inside the body as we
continue to examine the evidence that clearly demonstrates that
your body has a healing system that keeps you alive and healthy. In
each of the situations that follow, remember that the healing system
is the essential element in the healing process and that, without it,
healing would not occur.
looked

We’ve

already

Your

Healing System

Sam

was a

at

and Fractures: Sam’s

Story

senior staff sergeant with 15 years’ experience
paratrooper and combat controller in the United States

34-year-old

as a veteran

training mission, he was required to
jump from an altitude of 10,000 feet at nighttime over remote jun
gle terrain. Sam got caught up in a tree as he was landing and broke
his ankle in several places. The bone pierced through the skin, mak
ing it a compound fracture. This type of injury has a high rate of
infection and is notoriously difficult to treat. Infection that sets into
the bones is known as osteomyelitis, a serious condition that is diffi
cult to eradicate and that complicates the healing system’s ability to
knit the bones together to heal a fracture.
Sam was taken by airplane back to the Regional Medical Center
in the Philippines, where I was required to follow his case to see
whether he would ever be able to resume his career duties again. For
all intents and purposes, it looked as if his military career was over.
Sam was hospitalized repeatedly, placed on numerous antibi
otics, and operated on 11 times over a two-and-one-half-year period,
in attempts to knit his bones together. During this period, he wore
a cast almost continuously and was never able to walk on his own,
relying instead solely on crutches. He underwent numerous painful
scrapings and bone grafts in an attempt to clean the surfaces of the
bones from infection while the doctors were trying to join the bones
together. During these operations, numerous plates and screws were
Air Force.

During

also attached
At
cast

one

was

to

a

routine

his bones.

point,

when it looked

removed, and he

was

as

if the fracture

told he could

might heal,

Sam’s

in

light

participate

Your

Healing System

sports. A week

39

in Action

later, while he

grounder during a
friendly squadron softball game, Sam’s ankle snapped and broke in
two pieces as his foot bent out at a 90-degree angle. After this, it was
back to the operating room for him, with more scraping, more
metal plates and screws, another cast, and more crutches.
After two and one-half years, Sam was not only in jeopardy of
losing his job and being medically discharged from the Air Force, he
was also being considered for a foot amputation. He consulted with
the prosthetic specialist, who began fitting him for a prosthetic (arti
ficial) foot in anticipation of the upcoming operation. This was a
frightening proposition for such an active and previously healthy
young

was

fielding

a

man.

Back home in the U.S.,
Robert Becker had invented

healing

system in

cases

a

brilliant

an

surgeon named
electrical bone stimulator to aid the

orthopedic

of stubborn-healing fractures. Sam faced the

prospect of either having his foot amputated, or having this tiny,
electronic device, still in the experimental stages, temporarily
implanted next to the fracture site in his ankle. He chose the new

device, hoping against hope that it would work.
Several months later, Sam was back with a clean bill of health,

jumping

out

of

airplanes.

His bones had mended

together

with the

help of a device that worked with the healing system. Dr. Becker knew
that, given half a chance, the body’s healing system could take over
and finish the job. As the famous physician of ancient times, Galen
(129—199 AD), once said, “The physician is only nature’s assistant.”
A fractured bone is not a laughing matter, and it can be
extremely painful and disabling. However, because of your healing
system, even the largest bone in your body, your femur, under
normal circumstances takes only six weeks to completely heal. Even
if a fracture is displaced and the broken bones are not perfectly lined
up, in most cases, your healing system can knit the bones together
and realign them perfectly, so that when the healing has finished,
there is little

or no

evidence that

a

fracture

ever

occurred. Even when

complicated, and bones are totally displaced and out of
alignment, and metal plates and screws are required to hold the
bones together, your healing system can fuse them into one solid
form. Without your healing system, fractures, would be impossible
fractures

to

heal.

are

40

‘Whether
if

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

a

or not a cast or

splint is placed around the fracture site,

fractured bone is allowed

to rest

and remain immobile, bone

healing system, begins immediately
remodeling, when seen under the
miracles.
of
life’s
is
true
one
Tiny cells in the bone
microscope,
matrix, known as osteoclasts, digest the bone and release calcium into
initiated

remodeling,
after

a

by

your

fracture has occurred. Bone

the bloodstream, while other cells, known

as

osteoblasts,

act

like civil

engineers erecting a new suspension bridge and use the blood-calcium
stores to deposit new bone at the fracture site. These deposits facili
tate the process of knitting the bone back together again. No mod
ern technological invention, surgical procedure, or synthetic drug
can replace your healing system as it performs the important work
of repairing a fracture. The natural healing of a fractured bone after
effective that the fracture site is often stronger than
the surrounding normal bone tissue.
it is healed is

Your

so

Healing System

Verne’s heart disease
in the emergency

was

and the Heart: Verne’s

Story

discovered when he had his first heart attack

room at

the age of 69. He had another attack about

year later. Over the course of the next several years, he was placed
on numerous medications while he underwent several procedures,
a

unclog his arteries and slow the progression
of his disease. But these methods were only temporarily successful.
Over time, Verne’s heart disease grew worse. He was plagued with
known

as

constant

angioplasties,

chest

pain,

to

which increased when he walked up stairs

whenever he became angry or upset. It was quite scary.
When I met Verne, his heart disease had progressed

to

or

desperate

were recommending bypass surgery as the
proportions,
only way to keep him from dying. Even then, because of his advanced
condition, they said his prognosis did not look good, and the bypass
operation would only buy him a couple of extra years, at best. Verne
was not too keen on having his chest cracked open, and by sheer per

and his doctors

sistence and

first

determination, he was able

experimental

research

study

group
heart disease could be reversed without
Dr. Ornish’s program is based

on

the obstacles

to

if you

can

remove

processes, and work with your

to
to

enroll in Dr. Dean Ornish’s

investigate

drugs

whether

or not

or

surgery~
the now-proven premise that
your body’s natural healing

healing

system,

even

severe

heart

Your

disease

41

in Action

Healing System

be healed. Dr. Ornish’s program is

can

simple and uncom
comprehensive lifestyle changes that

and it consists of

plicated,

a healthy diet, exercise, stress management, and group sup
Of
course, at the time of his first study, these ideas and meth
port.
ods were considered radical by conventional medical standards.

include

Even

this

to

day,

for those

digest

thought of reversing heart disease is difficult to
steeped in the “old school” ways of thinking about
the

medicine and the
Verne took

to

weeks his chest

began

have

to

treatment

of disease.

the program

pain

more

went

enthusiastically, and within several
away as his breathing became easier. He

energy and

at

the

same

time felt

more

relaxed.

His stress and anger diminished. Gradually, one by one, the 13 dif
ferent heart medicines he was taking were reduced until he was

down

to

one-half of a

baby aspirin,

every other

day.

Today, the age of 87, Verne is totally free of heart disease. All
of his medical tests—positron emission tomography (PET) scans and
at

coronary angiogra ms—have documented complete reversal of his
condition. He hikes in alpine altitudes and travels the world exten

sively with his wife, teaching yoga and lecturing to
the merits of the Ornish program and the body’s

senior citizens

natural

on

ability

to

heal itself.

Although heart disease is still the number-one killer in the entire
even this deadly condition can be reversed and
healed when you learn to cooperate with your healing system, as
Verne did, by correcting the unhealthy underlying factors that are
causing blockages in the coronary arteries. As is possible for you,
Verne discovered the tremendous healing resources within his own
body, and, by adopting a healthier lifestyle, he became a partner in
his own healing process. Thanks to the groundbreaking work of Dr.
Ornish, we now know that by learning to listen to the body and
working with its healing system, people can reverse even the most
Western world,

advanced
As

a

cases

healing system
heart when its
known

of heart disease.

direct result of Dr. Ornish’s work,

as

can

we now

know that the

stimulate the

current

blood

neovascularization
the old

effectively bypass
rupted flow of blood

to

growth of new blood vessels to the
supply is threatened. This process is

or

collaterization. The

blockage, ensuring

a

new

arteries

can

continuous, uninter

the heart’s muscles. The process

can

prevent

42

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

heart attacks, and it is how you can literally grow your own coronary
artery bypass, without having to go through an operation.
Even if you have suffered a heart attack, and the heart’s muscle
cells seem to have died, new evidence has demonstrated that through

system, and restoring blood flow to these
heart muscle cells within a reasonable period of time, they can mirac

your miraculous

ulously

come

healing

back

life. The medical

to

sleeping bear who

Healing System
Mike’s Story
was a

dead

can come

reappears when winter is

Your

Mike

for this

new

discovery,

life when
presumed
re-established, is hibernating myocardium—like the

wherein heart tissue that is
circulation is

term

and

flight engineer

High

job.

to

over.

Blood Pressure:

in the Air Force, where he had served for

20 years. He had flown in Vietnam,

dren, and loved his

back

was

married with three chil

However, because he had been

recently

high blood pressure, he was in danger of losing his
diagnosed
job and possibly being kicked out of the Air Force. To prevent this
with

happening, he lost 25 pounds over six months by eating a lowfat diet and running every day for 30 minutes. However, his blood
pressure still did not come down. To complicate things further,
because of his flying status, he wasn’t able to take medications of any
kind. I was an Air Force flight surgeon at the time, and he came to
me seeking help.
from

After I reviewed his records and his efforts
pressure

by losing weight through

whether he

was

under

stress

to

lower his blood

diet and exercise, I asked Mike

of any kind. He

quickly responded with

confident and adamant “No!” This response let me know immedi
ately that I might be in for a difficult case because I had yet to meet
a

someone

in the

military who

wasn’t under

a

degree of stress.
having some troubles

certain

Additionally, I later found out that Mike was
with his marriage, which were causing even more stress. In spite of
his finest efforts to lower his blood pressure through diet and exer
cise, stress was contributing to his continued high blood pressure.
After several meetings and long discussions, during which I
explained the mechanisms of how prolonged stress can cause high
blood pressure, Mike was finally able to own up to the stress in his
life. He then consented to learning and practicing the simple, basic

Your

Healing System

43

in Action

stress-management techniques (see
which I thought would activate his

Chapter 6) 1 recommended,
healing system and lower his

blood pressure.
After only six weeks, Mike’s blood pressure returned to normal
and remained there for the rest of his career. By removing the

unhealthy factors that were responsible for creating the high blood
pressure, particularly the extreme stress in his life, Mike’s healing
system could easily and effortlessly restore his body to its natural
state of health. Of course, he still continues his healthy lifestyle,
including a low-fat diet, and 30 minutes of exercise and 15 minutes
of stress management each day.
As you can see, one of the most significant underlying factors in
high blood pressure is stress, which can create significant imbalance
in the body’s internal environment. Dr. Herbert Benson, associate
professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and chief of the
Division of Behavioral Medicine at the New England Deaconess
Hospital, has conducted numerous studies on the benefits of stress
management in lowering high blood pressure. By practicing simple
yet powerful stress-management techniques similar to those taught
by Dr. Benson (see Chapter 6), you can help your healing system
restore

your blood pressure

High

blood pressure,
can lead

killer” because it

to
or

normal levels.

hypertension,

is known

as

“the silent

serious, and sometimes

deadly,
Although many medica
tions are currently available for managing high blood pressure, they
often have side effects, and, unfortunately, none of them can cure
the problem. Once patients begin taking these medications, getting
off them is difficult, and many people will be on two or three of
them just to manage their high blood pressure.
Just as with heart disease, new evidence is proving that the heal
ing system can reverse and heal high blood pressure once the under
lying causes of the disease are addressed and such simple, natural
methods as diet, exercise, and stress management are properly
implemented. There is no mystery to this malady; the mechanisms
for healing high blood pressure are not complex or difficult to
understand. As with other diseases, removing the harmful causes of
the disease allows the healing system to restore the body to its natu
conditions such

ral

state

as

of health.

to more

heart disease and stroke.

44

Your

Your

Healing System

Extraordinary Healing System

and Stroke: Dean’s

young doctor with

load

Story
his heart. Not

only
by
financially
physically overweight,
thousands of dollars of outstanding student loans and a family to
support. Working more than 100 hours each week, sleep-deprived,
eating high-fat junk food, getting no exercise, having no fun, and
constantly fighting with his wife from the stress ended up costing
Dean

was

was a

a

heavy

but he

he

on

burdened

was

Dean his health.

high blood pressure, for which
he was treating himself with the drug samples that the pharmaceu
tical representatives gave him. He was erratic in monitoring his
blood pressure, and he didn’t want his colleagues to know about his
Dean

was

suffering from

chronic

condition. At the young age of 32 years, Dean suffered a massive
stroke that left him paralyzed in his right leg and arm. He was in the
for many weeks, and he underwent extensive physical ther
apy and rehabilitation to learn how to move his arm and walk again.
He was extremely depressed during the therapy and felt as if he had

hospital

left

nothing

to

live for.

During this
also had had
gone

on

a

low

period

of Dean’s life, he

stroke. But this

man

had

came across a man

completely

greater health than ever before
his diet and lifestyle, and learning how

to

enjoy

who

recovered and

by completely

revamping
manage his
stress through simple yet effective stress-management methods.
With his back up against the wall, on disability, and unable to prac
tice his trade, Dean decided to give these methods a try~
He immediately shifted his diet to one that was low fat and con
sisted mostly of fruits, vegetables, grains, and other whole foods. He
started exercising regularly, and he began practicing stress manage
ment

self

a

to

along with gentle yoga. Even though he didn’t consider him
religious person, he also began to pray regularly to help relax

and calm his mind.

to

His blood pressure slowly normalized, and he was gradually able
get off all his medications. As his health steadily improved over

the

next two

tually

years, he

returned

to

many

best-selling

adopt

a

to

feel better than

ever

before. He

even

active medical

practice, and went on to write
experiences. Because he learned to
incorporate methods that were in har

books about his

lifestyle and
body’s healing

healthier

mony with his

began

system, Dean

was

able

to

completely

Your

reverse

and

the effects of his stroke and live

fulfilling

more

Stroke is

rhage

45

in Action

Healing System

or

a

a

a

far healthier,

more

active,

life than before.

serious condition

usually

caused

blood clot in the brain. It also

by

either

can occur as a

a

hemor

result of

high blood pressure or other circulatory disturbances.
Stroke can be fatal. When it’s less severe, it can cause paralysis of the
chronic

extremities,

paralysis

most

often

on one

side of the

of the facial muscles, and

body, but it can also cause
affect speech, hearing, eyesight,

and the

ability to swallow.
Although stroke can be prevented by addressing its underlying
causes, even after it occurs, the healing system can often miraculous
ly restore the body to its natural state of health. Numerous studies
have documented that when one side of the brain is damaged, if the
individual receives proper training and makes a sincere effort, the
body’s healing system can facilitate the transfer of information from
the damaged side to the healthy side of the brain to restore normal
function to once-paralyzed limbs and muscles.
Your

Healing System

and £iabetes: Eric’s

Story

65-year-old, active man with advanced heart disease com
plicated by longstanding diabetes. For the past 20 years, he injected
himself with insulin daily to control his high blood sugar. His usual
daily dose of insulin was 45 units, not a small amount. If he didn’t
use this amount, his blood sugar would skyrocket to dangerous levels.
‘When Eric attended a one-week retreat for heart patients (many
Eric

was a

of whom also had

changes

diabetes), he

was

advised that, because of the

in diet and exercise, and the stress-management program

that would be part of the retreat, he would need to cut his
insulin dose in half, to make sure that he didn’t end up in a

daily
coma

from too-low blood sugar. He was also advised to monitor his own
blood sugars six times a day with a self-administered kit, to make

they stayed at the proper level.
I was his personal physician during this period, and so Eric
reported to me daily. On day one, as instructed, he cut his insulin
dosage to 22 units. His blood sugar remained normal. On day two,

sure

he

cut

again

again, to 11 units, and his blood sugar
On day three, he halved his insulin again,

his insulin in half

remained normal.

and he still had normal blood sugar. As word got

out

about Eric’s

46

Your

dramatic fall in insulin
told Eric
he

was

only following

to

sugar
Eric was

his insulin

completely

six years
He has stuck

dosages

so

fast. He

responded

that

to

stay normal.

By day

off insulin. He has remained off insulin

later, while his blood sugar continues

to

to

management. He reports his health
Because he learned to cooperate with his
was too

late, Eric

was

able

to

to

seven,
to

this

stay normal.

his diet and exercise and he has continued

stress

before it

and

for what he monitored his blood

be, and that they continued

day,
tice

on

the

nervous

the staff became

requirements,

down

not to cut

Extraordinary Healing System

to

be better than

body’s healing

demonstrate what

prac
ever.

system
med

most

ical experts previously thought to be impossible—he was able to get
off insulin (while keeping his blood sugar values normal), something
that he had
Eric’s

depended

case

of living with such
system

can

that your

on

daily

for

demonstrates that,
a

chronic,

than 20 years.
again, even after many years
disease as diabetes, the healing

more

once

deadly

and heal such conditions. When you recognize
has a healing system, and that by instituting simple,

reverse

body

natural methods that cooperate with it, your
natural state of health.

Your
The

Healing System
Story of Helen’s

body

can

restore

its

and Arthritis:
Mother

Helen worked in my medical office and always wore a smile. Her
mother, now in her late seventies and the mother of eight children,
had

developed

situation

was

form of osteoarthritis in her

right

unsettling to her because until
always walked at least one to two

miles

a severe

very

months, she had

she had looked forward
several doctors, she

to

this exercise time. After

told the

the

knee. This

previous six
a day, and

consulting with
help her

that would

was
only treatment
knee-replacement surgery~
Her daughter Helen understood that sometimes I took a different
approach to medicine, and she insisted that her mother see me. When
I saw her mother’s reports, and the X-rays, I had to agree that things
did not look good for her. However, I did prescribe a simple technique
that worked with the healing system; the technique improved the flow
of synovial fluid inside of the knee and helped to restore mobility to
the knee joint. Over the years, I have relied on this technique in my

would be

practice,

and I have

seen

the successful rehabilitation of

patients;

Your

Healing System

those with advanced

even

47

in Action

of arthritis

cases

improve significantly.

If

patients practice diligently and patiently over several months, this
technique can restore joint function and promote healing in the knee.
Because the technique is so simple, and because it requires active
patient participation over an extended period, I took pains to
explain to Helen’s mother the underlying principles of the practice
to help guarantee her adherence to it. ‘When I was satisfied that she
understood how the technique worked and why it was important
not to look for results right away, I made her promise me that she
would practice it faithfully, regularly, and carefully for six to eight
months. She agreed.
Within

weeks, Helen’s mother noticed significant diminish
improved function. After one month, she began
pain
walking again. After six months, she was pain-free and walking three
ment

to

two

of

and

four miles

day, dancing like a teenager, and praising me to the
day, seven years later, she has not missed her daily
remained pain-free. No knee replacement was ever

a

To this

moon.

walks and has

required.
There

many forms

are

of arthritis,

including osteoarthritis,

rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, which
have as their common denominator the destruction of the joint sur

faces, with increased pain and debility~ Conventional medicine
these diseases with

powerful suppressive medications (many
unsatisfactory side effects), and the possibility of a jointreplacement operation, but new evidence reveals that by under
standing and addressing the underlying factors that determine joint
health, as in Helen’s mother’s case, your healing system can heal and
treats

with

reverse

Your
Bob

arthritis.

Healing System

was

and Intestinal Diseases: Bob’s

pleasant, good-looking

a

twenties, with
member of an

a

wife and

amateur

Story

construction worker in his

kids. He loved baseball and

two

league. By all outer appearances,

early
was

a

Bob seemed

completely healthy; however, if you could look inside of his intes
tines, you would know that he
severe case

in the

hospital

as soon as

was

in

of Crohn’s disease. ‘When I
in which I

there

was an

pain

met

worked, and he

opening

in the

and

suffering

him, Bob

was

was a

from

a

patient

scheduled for surgery

operating-room

schedule. He

48

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

taking high doses of Prednisone and other strong medications
control
his symptoms, which included abdominal pain, weight
to
loss, diarrhea, weakness, fatigue, and nausea.

was

day,

One

when I

the food Bob
texture,

being

and difficult

someone

possible

was

was

to

making
served

digest.

rounds

was

at

mealtime, I noticed that

rather hard

This food

to

didn’t

just

rough in
seem right for

chew,

with his condition, and because I couldn’t discount the

role that his poor diet might be playing in that condition, I
pain and related symptoms increased after he ate.

asked whether his

He confirmed my suspicions
worse after he ate. He also told

by telling
me

they

me

were

definitely

his condition worsened when he

upset or under stress. This information did not surprise me. I
then asked whether his doctor had ever talked to him about his diet

was

or

suggested special

or stress

foods for his condition,

management. He

replied,

or

suggested

relaxation

“No.”

willing to go on a special diet
for a few days, a
improve his condition. I
suggested clear liquids, including water, gentle soup broths, juices,
herbal teas, and gelatin, and nothing solid. I told him why, explain
ing the mechanisms of digestion in relation to his disease. He
agreed. I also showed him some simple stress-management practices,
including gentle relaxation breathing to do, which would calm the
I asked Bob whether he would be

diet that I believed would

nerves

in his intestines.

doing. Each day,
he reported remarkable improvement. After just three days, he was
completely symptom free. He couldn’t believe that something so
simple as his diet and learning how to relax could take away the
incredible pain and suffering he had been going through for the past
Every day,

seven

I checked

on

Bob

how he

to see

was

years with this chronic intestinal condition. After removal of

the harmful factors that created imbalance and disorder in his intes

tines, Bob’s
ral

state

healing

system

was

able

to restore

Numerous intestinal diseases, such

peptic

his

body

to

its

natu

of health.
as

esophageal reflux, gastritis,

ulcer disease, irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative

colitis, and diverticulitis wreak havoc

on

millions of people.

Many of

are treated with strong medications or surgical pro
cedures, and they may be serious enough to cause death or serve as

these conditions

precursors

to

other

complications, including

cancer,

which

can

be

Your

Healing System

deadly.

Colon

49

in Action

cancer

alone is

one

of the

most

common

deadly

killers in the West.
In my

experience, using strong medications to attack these dis
eases as
were foreign entities accomplishes
temporary results
at best and does nothing to address the underlying factors contribut
ing to these diseases. Alternatively, learning to work with the heal
ing system, as Bob did, even though doing this may take longer, also
creates longer-lasting results. Working with
your healing system by
natural
methods
such
as proper nutrition and
implementing simple,
stress management, along with other modalities that
support and
if they

4 years old when his parents took him to an ear specialist
consult about the possibility of having tubes surgically implanted

Jesse
to

can

was

in his

ears.

He had been

on

antibiotics almost

continuously since

he

15 months old, and his ear infections were now chronic. In pre
school, his teachers complained that he didn’t respond to their ver
bal commands, and they were concerned about permanent hearing

was

loss. After

reading about

the

possible effects of not having the oper
ation, which included permanent hearing loss, Jesse’s parents went
home thinking surgery was their only option.
‘When Jesse’s father went for his regular chiropractic adjustment
the next day, he happened to mention Jesse’s situation to his chiroprac
tor. The chiropractor told him that by adjusting the
spine and remov
from
of
the
diets
affected
he
and
children,
ing dairy
many of his col
leagues had reported significant successes in children with conditions
similar to Jesse’s. Many medical doctors, including the well-known
author Dr. Andrew Weil, were now also recommending this treatment.
After postponing the conventional tube surgery, Jesse’s
parents
brought him to the chiropractor for treatment. He gently pressed on
Jesse’s spine, and he educated Jesse’s parents about good posture and
simple breathing techniques. They also began him on the new diet
that promised to decrease the amount of mucous and phlegm in the
respiratory system and eustachian tubes of the ears. The chiroprac
tic adjustments continued once a month for nine months.

50

Your

he hadn’t had
ist

into my office. His parents told me
with his ears since they saw the ear special

later, Jesse

Two years

a

problem

Extraordinary Healing System

came

years earlier. Furthermore, his hearing was perfect.
Middle-ear infections are extremely common in young children

two

and

be

can

a

nightmare

for

ing, multiple prescriptions

a parent. Sleepless nights, painful scream
for antibiotics, with the eventual placement

of tubes that puncture the eardrum and middle-ear chamber, along
with the possibility of permanent hearing loss, are not uncommon.
‘When I first heard about chiropractic adjustments for middle-

problems, I was skeptical. However, over the years, I have seen
enough positive results to know that these treatments often work.
Jesse’s case is just one example. As remote as the connection might
seem, the spinal adjustments help to improve posture and breathing,
and they possibly improve the lymphatic drainage of the middle ear.
Because your healing system integrates the function of all the
systems in your body, to understand and work with it requires
an expanded view of how the various parts of your body are inter
connected. Any healing modality or treatment that supports and
cooperates with the healing system by addressing and removing the
underlying factors of a disease, such as the unusual treatment just
described for middle-ear problems, can result in the healing of con
ear

ditions that appear to have no cure other than surgery. There is no
miracle in the restoration of health and healing from any disease
once you understand that your body has a healing system—and that

healing

is its

normal, ordinary, everyday job.

Your

Healing System
Rachelle’s Story

Rachelle

Multiple

Sclerosis:

young housewife with three children. She had been
with a severe, rapidly progressive form of multiple sclero

was a

diagnosed
sis

and

(MS) after experiencing symptoms of loss of coordination,

problems with balance, and visual disturbances. She was placed on
strong, suppressive medications and referred to a specialty clinic for
patients with multiple sclerosis. She was given a wheelchair and told
get used to it, because soon this would be what she would be
spending the rest of her life in.
to

‘When Rachelle
inside and

saw

opened the door to the specialty clinic, she peered

hundreds of other MS

patients,

all in wheelchairs,

Healing System

Your

and all with
she had

look of

a

51

in Action

resignation

on

that this

their faces. At that moment,

only strengthen her dis
premonition
place
ease. Refusing to give up hope of overcoming her affliction, she fled
the scene immediately. That moment marked the beginning of her
healing journey.
a

would

her doctor’s advice, Rachelle underwent

Against

a

series of

in which she experienced temporary
her
see
improvement.
symptoms go away, even if only briefly, was
all the hope she needed to continue to fight to regain her health. She
treatments

acupuncture

To

decided

to

become

researching,

an

active

and

participant in

her

treatment

doctors and healers from

by reading,

wide range of
and traditions. She began

visiting
complementary disciplines
practicing gentle yoga and took a keen interest in her thoughts and
attitudes while studying the effect they had on her body. She learned
that her mind and her attitude played a key role in the health of her
body. She began to take better care of her nourishment, not only
with her food, but also with her thoughts. She saw that loving thoughts
nourished her body, whereas thoughts borne of low self-esteem and
self-hatred were harmful to her body.
After 11 grueling years, Rachelle finally overcame her affliction
alternative and

and

a

declared disease free. Her classic book, Who Said So?: A

was

and

Woman’s

Fascinating Journey of Self Discovery

IVIultzple

Sclerosis, (Rachelle Breslow, Celestial Arts, 1991) is

the

compelling

most

healing

stories and critical

system that I have

Triumph

over

one

of

pieces of evidence for the
By discovering her heal

ever come across.

system, and learning to discard unhealthy habits and thought
patterns that served as obstacles to its performance, Rachelle was

ing

able

to

completely

“incurable”

by

reverse

most

Your

Healing System

James

was a

captain

with the 1st SOS

squadron

based

also stationed
Center in the

One
over

the

out

as

a

and

a

disease still considered

experts!

Kidney

Stones:

in the U.S. Air Force and

James’ Story
a

senior C-130

pilot

(Special Operations Squadron)
of the Philippines at Clark Air Base, where I was
flight surgeon at the USAF Regional Medical

reconnaissance

Department
while he

day,
jungles

and heal from

so-called health

of Aerospace Medicine.

flying a low-altitude mission on a hot day
of Thailand, James began to feel a terrible pain in
was

52

his back,
waves.

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

right flank,

As the

pain

and

groin

that seemed

radiated from his back

to

to

his

and go in
area, becom

come

groin

ing stronger and more intense with each wave, it crescendoed to a
steady 10 out of 10 on the Richter scale of pain and soon became
unbearable. The

pain

became

so

excruciating

that

James,

now

per

spiring profusely, was forced to turn over all the controls of his air
craft to the copilot while he scrambled to lie down in the back. His
copilot requested clearance for an emergency landing.
After his copiiot landed the plane, James was met by an ambu
lance that took him to the nearest hospital in Bangkok. In the hos
pital, he was given intravenous pain medications. He was then
immediately evacuated by air ambulance and transferred to the
USAF Regional Medical Center in the Philippines, where I worked.
After several hours in the emergency department of our large
hospital, and numerous examinations, including X-rays, blood tests,
and urine tests, James was told he had a kidney stone. Kidney stones
occur as blockages in the kidneys or ureters, and they can be one of
the most painful conditions ever to experience. Surgery for kidney
stones is not uncommon because they can be life threatening, espe
cially if they are large enough.
Several days later, while James was still in the hospital, after he
had received voluminous amounts of intravenous fluids and pain
medications, he passed a single, solitary kidney stone. He was
uneventfully discharged from the hospital after a few days. At this
point, everything looked good.
On follow-up examinations, however, while he was an outpa
tient, James’ urine tests showed elevated urinary calcium, which per
sisted for days and weeks, and which alarmed his specialists. They
suspected an underlying metabolic problem, which could lead to
another kidney stone, and despite James’ insistence that he felt fine
and was ready to return to flying, they would not allow him back in
the cockpit. They contended that he was a threat to his and others’
flying safety. In the aerospace industry, and in the language of the
U.S. Air Force, according to strict flight-safety policies, James was
indefinitely “grounded.” This meant that his flying career, within
both the military and civilian worlds, was essentially over.
I believed in the intelligence and power of James’ healing sys
tem, and I felt strongly that once the obstacles to its performance

Your

Healing System

53

in Action

healing system could correct the situation. I was
convinced that his high urinary calcium was the result of the resid
ual calcium oxalate “sand,” which consisted of ultra-fine particles
left over from the stone that had recently passed. This conviction
was based on the information I received while I was performing a
detailed medical history of the events leading up to his kidney-stone
incident. Just days before the incident, James had had diarrhea, and
he had become severely dehydrated at the time he was flying. While
flying, he also became severely overheated in his bulky flight suit and
stuffy cockpit, a condition made worse by Thailand’s heat. He had
also been under significant stress for six months related to an illness
in the family. All of these factors predisposed him to a kidney stone.
I encouraged James to drink as much water as he could, to flush
out the residual sand that I felt was responsible for his elevated urine
calcium. As it turned out, simple water was all his healing system
needed to reverse the dangerously high levels of calcium in his body.
Thanks to James’ healing system, and his ability to cooperate
with it by drinking lots of fluids, abstaining from alcohol and caf
feine, and avoiding and managing his stress, about six months from
the day of his kidney-stone episode, his urine calcium returned to
normal, and he was permanently restored to flying status without
were

removed, his

any medications and without any waiver.

James has been flying as a senior pilot for Delta Airlines now for
than 15 years. He surfs, has three beautiful children, and hasn’t

more

missed

day of flying due

illness

during this entire period. He likes
water,
imagine, and to date has never had an
you
inkling of the kidney stone problems that almost ended his career.
to

a

drink

to

can

as

Your

Healing System

Tony

wears

and

his shaven head

reminder of his successful
nant cancer

Cancer:Tony’s Story

of the

lymph

proudly, as a battlefield trophy and
victory over Hodgkin’s disease, a malig

system, which had him down and

out

for

several years.

Tony looks good with his shaved head and mustache. Even
though he could grow his hair back if he wanted to, he prefers the
look of a monk-warrior. He is in great shape, running four to five
miles each day, and working full time in the automotive department
of a major, national-chain department store. Although he has an air

54

Your

of determination about him,
a

at

the

same

Extraordinary Healing System

time, he’s almost

little twinkle in his eyes. He is
person. Here’s a man who knows the

cheerful mood, with

vibrant, magnetic

a

always in
a glowing,
gift of life

single second feeling sorry for himself or enter
taining negative thinking, in spite of all he’s been through.
When I asked Tony where he thought his cancer came from,
and to what he attributed his healing, the answers were simple and
straightforward. “Doc,” he said, “I was under a lot of stress just prior
to my diagnosis. I was working too hard and worrying too much. I
wasn’t having fun, and I was way too serious. I never rested, and
everything seemed to get to me. I had a lot of anger that I couldn’t
release. I felt all bottled up inside. My diet was bad. I wasn’t taking
good care of myself, and I knew it.
“When I received my diagnosis, I felt that it was a wake-up
call,” Tony continued. “In a way, it gave me an excuse to be a little
selfish again and focus on the needs of my body. I changed my atti
and doesn’t

waste a

tude and my ways and decided that I would turn all my troubles
over to a higher power. I started taking the time to eat right, exer

brought
my
by becoming a little more aware of how my attitude, thinking,
and behaviors were affecting my body. The entire process of getting
ill and then being healed was completely logical to me.”
When people start to realize the amazing power of their own
healing systems, and start taking responsibility for their own health,
as Tony did, they often become empowered to take the necessary
steps to help their bodies heal. Although cancer has been and contin
on

own cancer,

of the

most

was

me out

mess

ues to

be

one

feared diseases of modern times,

even can

stand up to the miraculous powers of your healing system
learn
how to remove the obstacles that interfere with its
once you
functioning. As you become more aware of the many ways your heal
cer cannot

imperative. Some of these obstacles are
ingestion of toxic substances, poor diet,
stress, and lack of exercise; others are more subtle, such as unhealthy
thinking and holding onto anger. Because much unhealthy thinking
of your

healing

obvious, such

as

system is
habitual

and behavior is habitual and unconscious, you must first become
aware of these unhealthy patterns before you can change them. As
we

explore a little later
a powerful influence

will

exerts

you

can

do

to

in the
on

make the mind

book,

you will

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing
ally in your healing.

your
an

how your mind
system, and what

see

ClosingThoughts onYour
Healing System in Action
body knows how to heal itself because it has a remarkably efficient
intelligent healing system. You can think of your amazing healing
system as the field marshal who commands the forces of healing with
in your body, directing the various elements to maintain your natural
state of health. I could have presented many more cases here, but it is
clear from the evidence presented so far that you have a healing system
that is capable of healing your body from a multitude of afflictions,
even when these afflictions have become advanced and things appear
pretty hopeless. As long as you are alive, you have healing power.
It is important to remember that, even though the variety of dis
eases and the number of afflictions you may potentially suffer from
on this earth appear vast and staggering, the many ways that your
healing system can heal you and keep your body healthy are, by far,
infinitely greater.
To understand more thoroughly how your healing system works,
and what you can do to work with it, learning about the other systems
in your body with which it is allied is important. Your healing system
utilizes these other systems and relies on their cooperation to initiate
powerful and sophisticated healing responses whenever illness or
injury threatens your natural state of health. In the next chapter, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll
learn about the critical relationship between your extraordinary heal
ing system and the other systems in your body, and how they all work
together and respond to each other in incredible ways.

Your

and

CHAPTER 3

The Team Members of
Your

Healing System

system is intimately connected to all of your body’s
other 12 systems. It is integrated within the structures and cells of
our

healing

these different systems so much so that when your body is in its nat
ural state of health, the cooperation between the healing system and
the other systems of the body, and the ways in which
together, are almost flawless.

they

function

To fully understand the connections between the healing system
and the other systems of the body, you first need to understand how
each system functions individually and performs specialized tasks.

The health of each individual system is essential to your overall
health and to each system’s ability to work efficiently and effectively
with your

healing

system.

Your Skin
Your skin is the

Consisting

most

of several

shades, your skin is

exterior and

layers

one

and

of the

exposed system in your body.
appearing in a variety of colors and

most

obvious features that define your
continuous organ, and, much like

body’s individuality. Your skin is one
a teddy bear or other stuffed animal’s

outer

lining

that holds its stuff-

58

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

your skin can be looked upon as the outer covering of the body
that holds in all of your internal structures. Your skin exhibits the fol

ing in,

that aid your

lowing qualities
o

Skin is flexible. It
as

expand

important ways:

can

to

tremendous

demonstrated

sunlight. Like a chameleon, your skin can
change color, depending on its exposure to the sun. Gradual
increases in sun exposure result in the accumulation and depo
sition of a pigment known as melanin, which results in tanning.
Sunlight contains vitamin D, which improves calcium absorp
tion and helps maintain bone density. Tanning increases
tolerance to sun exposure, thus allowing for greater amounts
of vitamin D to be absorbed and produced. Sunlight also pro
motes wound healing, prevents infection, and stimulates the
immune system, and so the skinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to absorb sunlight is a
sophisticated mechanism that benefits and supports your heal
Skin

ing
o

stretch and

in many

capaci
during pregnancy and extreme cases of
obesity~ This characteristic helps your skin resist tearing and
other injuries, which reduces the burden on your healing system.
ties,

o

healing system

can

absorb

system.

Skin holds in your
cent

optimum functioning
tent

fluids. Because your body is 70 per
proper fluid levels is necessary for
of your healing system. When water con

and because of your skin, it can maintain this temperature most
of the time. At 98.6 degrees, all the enzyme systems in your body’s
internal environment function

optimally, including those that
work with your healing system. Any sudden or sustained reduc
tion in this normal body temperature disrupts the health and
integrity of your body. The pores in your skin also regulate body
temperature by opening wider and sweating when body temper
ature rises too high, and by closing to retain heat when body
temperature goes too low. Sweating supports your healing system
by preventing your body from overheating during periods of
extreme physical activity or exceptionally hot weather, when a
fever is present,

or

when you have

stress.

capable of absorbing moisture and other substances.
Much like a frog, your skin can absorb water and literally drink
from the environment. Medical scientists are now making use of
the skin’s absorption capabilities by creating medicines that are
applied to the skin in the form of patches. These medicines
include nitroglycerin for heart patients, estrogen for postmenopausal women, nicotine for people attempting to quit
smoking, and scopolamine to help prevent motion sickness.

*

Your skin is

*

Skin eliminates toxins and

products. One important
example of the skin’s ability to rid the body of toxins is its
response when the body has a fever. With a fever, sweating
occurs, which helps the body eliminate the toxins caused by the
infection. Until modern medicine began encouraging the use of
medications to suppress fever, people with high fevers, includ
ing those fevers caused by pneumonia, were encouraged to
drink lots of fluids and bundle up in heavy blankets to sweat out
waste

the toxins until the fever broke.
*

Skin

plays an important role in touch. Touch is a vital ingredi
physical and emotional health. Human beings require
regular, compassionate touching to thrive and survive. Studies
done with touching show that the cultures that advocate more
touching have less heart disease and mental illness than cultures
in which people don’t touch very often. Babies who are not held
ent

for

60

Your

and touched often

Thrive

develop

which

syndrome,
to strengthen

a

can

and

is essential

Extraordinary Healing System

condition known

as

Failure

have fatal consequences.

fortify your healing

Your Hair,Your Nails, and Your

to

Touching

system.

Healing System

helps your healing system in several ways, and although hair is
usually thought of as separate from skin, your hair is a part of your
skin. Each type of hair shape, color, and distribution on the body
found throughout the world has been designed to aid our healing sys
tems and keep our bodies healthy in a multitude of ways. For exam
ple, in Africa, where temperatures can become extremely hot, tightly
curled hair, often referred to as â&#x20AC;&#x153;kinkyâ&#x20AC;? hair, serves to keep the head
and body cool. Kinky hair acts like an intricately coiled refrigerator
system to help trap and cool water vapors (moisture that has evapo
Hair

rated in the form of steam) off the top of the head. Mediterranean
body hair, which is more common in warm, arid climates, protects the
body from drying out, and from wind and sand. This type of hair

helps

to conserve

Hair also

fluids and

acts as a sense

regulate body temperature.
organ for touch. If your head

begins

to

brush up against an overhanging object that you might not have
seen, your hair will meet the object first. The movement of hair will
inform you to duck your head quickly to avoid serious injury~
Toenails and fingernails are also specialized parts of your skin,
and

they help
toes

your

Wound

and

healing
fingers.
your

Healing

Your skin possesses

sion, burn,
of blood

or

other

along

of the

an

by protecting

the delicate

heal itself after

a

tips

Sk~in

uncanny

injury.

system

ability

Because

with concomitant
the

to

injuries

injuries

to

to

laceration, abra

the skin may involve the loss

deeper
and

structures

within the

collaboration of

timely
sophisticated
healing requires
the immune, and
the
the
endocrine,
circulatory,
including
body
systems,
many
directs this
and
Your
the nervous systems.
healing system supervises
body,

wound

remarkable collaboration.

of

The Team Members of Your

61

Heaiing System

Your Skeletal

System

The skeletal system establishes the rigid framework of your body
and is made up primarily of bones, which are the densest structures

body. Intact bones that
on archeological sites.

in your

found

are

thousands of years old

Your skeletal system works with your

important
*

healing

can

be

system in many

ways:

Bones absorb

internal

significant stress loads and protect the body’s deeper
organs and tissues. The ribs, for example, in addition to

being involved in the function of respiration, also serve to protect
the heart and lungs and other vital structures in the chest cavity~
The skull protects and houses the brain, the master organ in the
body. The bones in the spine, known singularly as vertebra, and

collectively as vertebrae, are stacked one on top of each other to
form the spinal column. The vertebrae support the weight of your
head; they also act like flexible conduits, encasing and protecting
the delicate spinal cord, which is the main electrical, intercommu
nicating highway between your brain and body.
*

In

conjunction
uncanny ability
the

case

of fracture. This

continue
*

to

In addition
are

with your healing system, bones have an
mend and knit themselves back together in

to

protect the
to

responsible

capability ensures that your bones will
deeper organs and tissues of the body.

their

protective role, bones, along

with muscles,

for

which

body healthy

movement,

keeps

your

and free from disease (see the next section, “Your Muscular
System”). For example, the bones of the legs are responsible for

walking, running, climbing, and jumping, while the bones in the
arms, hands, and fingers are responsible for movement of the
upper extremities. The bones in your face

participate

in facial

and

expression, chewing,
breathing; they also protect the delicate
sense organs in the region, such as your eyes, ears, and nose.
*

body’s largest pool of calcium. Calcium is
required for healthy muscle contractions, heart activity, nerve
transmission, and other vitally important functions that aid
your healing system in keeping your body healthy.
Bones

serve

as

the

62

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

Your Muscular

System

The system that is primarily responsible for movement in your body
is the muscular system. Muscles make up approximately 40 percent

of your total

body weight,

and

they

alone

are

the heaviest and

dominant system in your body. The muscles in your body
key allies to your healing system in the following ways:

o

‘When muscles

move

contract, they generate heat, which
This process supports your healing system

and

keeps your body warm.
by keeping your body functioning
o

o

o

most

serve as

at

optimum

temperatures.

and exercise of the muscles

improves circu
Regular movement
lation by strengthening the heart. A strong heart aids the healing
system by improving the delivery of oxygen and vital nutrients
throughout your body.
Muscles have a tremendous capacity to grow, change, and heal.
They are dynamic, versatile, and highly plastic. Body builders
who continually lift weights over a long period of time can add
up to 100 pounds or more of solid muscle tissue to their frames,
becoming powerful and strong in the process. Alternatively, yogis
in India, through many years of stretching the muscles in their
bodies, can mold their bodies into pretzels—they have earned the
label of “rubber men” for the incredible flexibility in their joints.
Muscles that are strong, flexible, and relaxed create healthy joints
and ensure strength and maximum movement, which is essential
for the healing system to function most efficiently.
important internal processes that aid
keeping your body healthy. For example,
your healing
muscles of respiration participate in breathing, causing move
ment of the diaphragm and the rib cage, which allows air and
oxygen to flow in and out of your lungs.
Muscles also

participate

in

system in

o

Smooth muscles, located inside various vital organs, such as the
intestines, the arteries, and the bronchioles in the lungs, are criti

functioning of these organs and the healing system. They
can contract and expand the diameters of these important tubular
structures, and in the process, help to direct the movement of vital
cal

to

the

The Team Members of Your

63

Healing System

body fluids and important gases such as oxygen
body.

specific destina

to

tions within your
*

The

following examples emphasize how indispensable the smooth
are to the health and performance of your healing system.

muscles

When the muscles in the arteries
narrower;

body. In
digestive

this

helps
digestive

the

to

tract,

known

system, the
as

the arteries become

contract,

circulate blood

more

quickly through your

movement

is caused

peristalsis,

of food down the

by

the

alternating

expansion of the intestinal muscles; peristalsis
allows the food to pass along the length of the intestines. The
same is true in the lungs, where the muscles that line the breath
ing tubes, known as the bronchi and bronchioles, help to regulate
the flow of air in and out of your body.
contraction and

Your Nervous
The

nervous

system is the

master

communication and electrical

of your brain, the

of your
the

System

healing system. Consisting
peripheral nerves (like a tree with

many

spinal

branches),

arm

cord, and

your

nervous

system processes information and sends and receives messages with
astonishing speed and precision throughout all parts of your body.
With the help of your nervous system, your healing system

going on in even the tiniest cell in the most remote
body. Because of your nervous system, your healing
region
system can dispatch a concentrated, orchestrated, and effective heal
ing response with great accuracy and speed to any area of your body.
knows what is

of your

Your

1. The

nervous

voluntary

such activities

swimming,

system consists of two main limbs:

nervous
as

system, which

regulates

the

movements

of

standing, walking, running, jumping, sitting,
can consciously

and all other activities that you

direct.
2. The

involuntary

nervous

which

system, also known as the autonomic
automatically controls vital body

system,
processes, such as breath, heartbeat,
nervous

adaptation

to

light,

body temperature, visual
muscular reflexes, and many others.

64

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

system is exquisitely interconnected to the func
tioning of your entire nervous system, upon which it depends
for specialized roles in communication, the regulation of vital,

healing

Your

life-sustaining, physiological processes, and the direction of key
mechanisms for the growth, repair, and maintenance of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
natural

state

of health.

Sense

Organs

and Your

Healing System

In association with your nervous system, there are highly specialized
tissues and structures in your body known as sense organs, which

include the eyes,

ears,

tongue, and skin. Information that
and aids your healing system, and that

nose,

influences your perception
enables you to safely move about in this world, is fed
these various

through
to

avoid

danger, but,

sense
more

to

your brain

organs. Sense organs not only allow you
importantly, to interact with life in all its

coming in through the senses can also directly
bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physiology, exerting a powerful influence on your

fullness. Information
alter your

healing

system.

Your Endocrine

System (Glands)

The endocrine system consists of the major organ-glands in your
body; these organ-glands are responsible for the production, secre

of all your hormones. Hormones are powerful
chemical messengers that work with your healing system to influ
ence important physiological processes and vital body functions.

tion, and

regulation

following hormones and their respective endocrine organs,
commonly referred to as giands, make up the endocrine system and
play major roles in the chemistry of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal environ
ment while they support your healing system through numerous
The

mechanisms:

o

Adrenaline, also known
nal
is

as

epinephrine, produced by

one

the adre

of the best known of all hormones. Adrenaline

glands,
rapidly secreted during emergencies,
is

and in response

to

fear,

The Team Members of Your

stress,

or

other

65

Healing System

states

of excitement; it activates the

flight” response, which
body’s physiology:

causes

the

“fight-or
following changes in your

•

increases heart

•

increases blood pressure

4

increases

•

increases oxygen

•

dilates

•

affects many other functions that help the body direct
resources to effectively deal with any emergency~

rate

respiratory

rate

consumption

pupils

a

Adrenocorticotropic hormone, or ACTH, produced by your
pituitary gland, regulates the production of cortisol from the
adrenal gland. Cortisol regulates glucose metabolism, plays a
key role in the immune system, and aids the healing system by
acting as a powerful, natural anti-inflammatory agent.

a

Aldosterone,
mone

the
a

that

body;

produced by the adrenal glands, is a powerful hor
regulates the amount of sodium and fluid levels in

it also controls blood pressure.

Estrogen and progesterone, produced by the ovaries in women,
play important roles in menstruation and pregnancy; they also
have other wide-reaching effects in the body, such as bone for
mation, cholesterol metabolism, and the health of the skin.

eggs, in the ovaries of women, where estrogen is
These hormones also are involved in the process of

ova, or

produced.

menstruation, and

they play

an

important

role

during

preg

nancy.
a

Growth hormone,
and

a

regulates

Insulin is

bone

produced by your pituitary gland, controls
growth and overall growth in your body.

produced

important hormones

in the pancreas and is

in your

body.

Insulin

one

of the

most

regulates glucose

metabolism and blood sugar, which are central to the health of
your healing system, and to every cell and tissue in your body.

66

o

Your

Interstitial
release of

o

cell-stimulating hormone,

testosterone

from the

testes

Extraordinary Healing System

or

ICSH, stimulates the

in males.

Melatonin, which is strongly influenced by sunlight and plays a
major role in the regulation of moods, is a powerful hormone

produced by the pineal gland. Melatonin controls natural sleep
and wake cycles, and the production of melanin, the pigment
that helps regulate the amount of sunlight that enters into your
body.
o

Oxytocin, produced by the pituitary gland, regulates the process
by stimulating uterine contractions during childbirth.
Oxytocin also aids in milk production and secretion during
breast-feeding.

of labor

Parathyroid hormone, produced by the parathyroid glands, con
trols bone metabolism and regulates calcium levels in your
blood. Parathyroid hormone also affects calcium absorption in
your intestines and calcium resorption in your kidneys. Calcium
also is required for the functioning of the heart, as well as other
important muscles and nerves in your body.
o

o

gland, regulates lactation
following childbirth in women.

Prolactin, secreted from the pituitary
and the release of breast milk

produced in the testes in men, is required for tes
development, sexual maturity, the production of sperm,
the development of facial and body hair, depth of voice, muscu
lar development, and male libido.

Thyroid stimulating hormone, or TSH, produced by your pitu
itary gland, controls and regulates the function of the thyroid
gland, which is one of the most important glands in your body.

o

Vasopressin, or ADH (antidiuretic hormone), produced by the
pituitary gland, acts on the kidneys to conserve water by inhibit
ing urination and also plays a role in blood-pressure regulation.

The Team Members of Your

Your
Your
to

digestive

Digestive System

system consists of various organs that

your small and

uous,

67

Healing System

large

intestines, which combine

hollow, twisted, tube-like

structure

to

are

connected

form

that extends

a

more

contin

than 30

feet from your mouth to your rectum. The following components
make up the digestive system: your mouth, tongue, teeth, salivary
glands, nose, throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, large

intestines,

rectum,

and

anus.

The

digestive system also includes the
appendix. Your digestive system,

gall bladder, pancreas, and
through the delivery of essential nutrients, maintains close ties with
your healing system.
Your digestive system is responsible for breaking down, absorbing,
and assimilating vital nutrients into your body from the foods you eat.
These nutrients provide the fuel for your healing system and for your
entire body, helping it grow, repair itself, and maintain its natural state
of health. As your body heals from any malady, your digestive system
plays a key role in delivering necessary nutrients for the purposes of
rebuilding and providing new growth to damaged tissues.
Following digestion, what your body doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need or cannot use
is eliminated through the large intestines in the form of solid wastes.
Elimination aids your healing system by ridding your body of
unwanted toxins and waste products.
liver,

breathing, the ribs and diaphragm are consid
ered ancillary structures of the respiratory system. The health of each of
these structures affects the health of your entire respiratory system and,
ultimately, your entire body. Your respiratory system directs the flow of
air in and out of your body through these various structures.
The respiratory system is responsible for delivering oxygen to
your blood, which is then pumped to every cell and tissue in your
body. Without oxygen, your cells and tissues cannot live. Your res
Because of their role in

68

Your

piratory
dioxide,

system is also responsible for ridding your body of carbon
a toxic waste product of normal cellular metabolism.

The

respiratory

including
is in

system is connected

shock, has

body
a

has

fever,

to

many other systems,

circulatory, lymphatic,

your nervous,

When the

tems.

Extraordinary Healing System

or

an

oxygen

deficit, such

has sustained

a severe

and
as

digestive

when

a

sys

person

illness,

trauma,

or

injury, or when stress is significant, rates of breathing tend to auto
matically increase to bring more oxygen into the body. This is just
one example of a critical cooperative effort between your respirato
ry system and your healing system.

Your

Circulatory System

system consists of your heart and blood vessels,
the blood, and all the various constituents in your blood, including

The

circulatory

your red blood cells. In your

heart, the coronary

special
bring the blood supply back to the heart itself. If these
arteries become clogged, a heart attack can occur. Their health is
critical to the health of your heart, upon whose health your healing
system and entire body depend.
The circulatory system has many vital functions. It is responsi
arteries

are

arteries that

ble for

o

and

distributing blood,

which contains oxygen and
other vital nutrients and substances, to every cell and tissue in your

Pumping

body.

These nutrients and substances include hormones, antibod

ies, enzymes, neurotransmitters, vitamins, minerals, and
ments
o

that

Removing

are

vital

to

the

toxic metabolic

functioning
byproducts,

trace

ele

of your

healing

such

carbon dioxide

as

system.

and lactic acid.
o

oxygen from the lungs
in your body. Hemoglobin,

Carrying

to

sues

a

red blood cells,
o

accomplishes

the various organs and tis
very important molecule in

this task.

Clotting of the blood. White blood cells, which are crucial for
the functioning of the immune system, are essential for blood
clotting. Blood clotting is unique function of the circulatory
a

The Team Members of Your

system, and it

during times of injury to prevent excessive
clotting represents one of the true miracles of

occurs

blood loss. Blood
the

healing system.

Your
You

69

Healing System

think of your

can

Lymphatic System

lymphatic

system

as

the

blood-purification

system. The lymphatic system consists of a series of lymphatic ves
sels and lymph nodes that are strategically located throughout spe
cific parts of your body. Lymph fluid circulates freely throughout

the

system; this fluid contains white blood cells, antibodies,
and important chemicals of the immune system. Your lymphatic
system works closely with your circulatory, immune, and healing

lymph

systems

as

it circulates and

toxins and

removes

impurities

from your

body keep your tissues and blood free from disease caused
teria, viruses, and other invaders.
to

Your

by bac

Urinary System

urinary system is primarily responsible for acting as a filter for
blood
to remove wastes and toxins from your body. The major
your
organs of your urinary system include your kidneys and bladder, and
Your

support your healing system through a number of
functions. These functions include the following:

key minerals and trace elements that support vital
physiological processes that are essential for your healing system.
and other

a

Your

urinary system

blood, which is critical

monitors
to

your

protein concentration
healing system.

in the

70

Your

Your
In women, the

Extraordinary Healing System

Reproductive System
is located in the lower abdomen

reproductive system

pelvic area, and it consists of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, and
vagina. The breasts, located in the chest, are also included in this
system. The breasts are actually dual-purpose organs, serving as
nutritive, lactating glands that deliver milk immediately following
childbirth; in addition, they act as attractive forces to the opposite
sex, and as tissues of arousal that help promote sexual and reproduc
and

tive activities. In this way, the breasts

serve

both

secretory function and a reproductive one.
In men, the testes, prostate, seminal vesicles,

make up the reproductive system.
More than any other system in the

body,

an

endocrine,

urethra, and penis
the

reproductive

system is responsible for helping to differentiate the physical charac
teristics of men and women. These differences are responsible for
the

strongly magnetic

between the

sexes.

forces that

help

foster the sexual attraction

The natural result of this attraction, and the main

function of your reproductive system, is reproduction and prolifer
ation of the species. Although women can live without a uterus or
men can live without testes and a prostate, the repro
ductive system is essential for the survival of the human race.
The reproductive system maintains an intimate connection with

ovaries, and

the endocrine system. In addition to having receptors for hormones
produced by other organs, the reproductive system produces it own
estrogen in females and testosterone in
males. These hormones contribute to overall health, and they can

hormones,

most

notably

influence emotional and mental
influence

states.

For instance, estrogen

exerts

the heart.

protective
Many other systems in the body also are connected to the health
and proper functioning of the reproductive system. These include
the nervous, endocrine, circulatory, and lymphatic systems.
a

on

Your Immune
Your immune system consists of
organs that

can

System

complex network of cells and
produce extremely powerful chemicals known as
a

The Team Members of Your

known about your immune system until quite
Research is still discovering new facts about this amazing

antibodies. Little

recently.

was

system, whose chief function is
tion and other intruders.

ly

71

Healing System

to

defend your

body against

infec

The cellular components of your immune system consist large
of white blood cells, with highly specialized roles and functions.

You

can

think of white blood cells

grammed

to

destroy

any

invading

bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites,

as

infantrymen

who

are

pro

enemy in the form of
or

other harmful

pathogenic
organisms. The

division of labor among the many types of white blood cells of your
immune system is so detailed, subtle, sophisticated, and precise as to
make any other army or military force in the
appear primitive and impotent in comparison.

Antibodies, which
threats and

can

history

of the world

in direct response to specific
molecular cruise missiles, are released

produced

are

be likened

to

destroy unwanted intruders
with remarkable speed, accuracy, and precision. Antibodies are pres
ent in the blood, produced in large quantities upon demand. They
also are in the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mucous membranes, such as the nose, mouth,
respiratory system, intestines, urethra, and other body tissues and
into the bloodstream

cavities that

to

connect to

seek

out

and

the outside environment.

Your immune system, once thought to be a completely inde
pendent system, is now known to be directly linked to your brain

system, and to other systems, as well. For example,
white blood cells have been discovered to possess receptors for neu
rotransmitters produced by the brain, which demonstrates a direct
and

nervous

chemical link with your brain and nervous system. Other white
blood cells have been found to have specific hormone receptors,
indicating that your endocrine system communicates directly with
your immune system. Even

certain white blood cells

astonishing is recent evidence
produce and secrete hormones

more

can

communicate directly with your endocrine system.
As we discussed earlier, your immune system works

that
that

closely with
your healing system; and although the two systems are clearly dis
tinct, in many instances they work together to restore your body to
its natural

state

of health.

72

Your

Team

Extraordinary HeaHng System

Closing Thoughts on the
Members of Your Healing System

though an entire book could be written on each individual
system presented in this chapter, I hope you now have a greater sense
of appreciation for how the various systems in your body function
individually and together in support of your extraordinary healing
system, which orchestrates the processes that keep you healthy. In
the next chapter, we will look at the many ways you can cooperate
with your healing system by strengthening and fortifying it so that
it can work for you most efficiently and effectively.
Even

CHAPTER 4

Strengthening and Fortif~ring
Your Healing System

our

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing

system

installed, and fully functional,

comes
even

prepackaged, completely

before the first breath

enters

lungs when you are born. Although the healing system is deliv
to you in perfect condition, the choices you make in your
everyday life can have a serious impact upon its performance and its
activities. Your diet and lifestyle, home and work environment,
moods and emotions, thoughts and attitudes, in addition to a mul
titude of other factors that are within your control, can dramatically
alter the behavior and efficiency of your healing system.
You can impede your healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to perform its pro
grammed mission, and overburden and exhaust its resources, by

your

ered

participating

in activities that

are

harmful

to

your health. Such

following: ignoring the basic needs of your
body, eating nutrientbody, putting
poor foods, not drinking enough water, not getting enough sleep
and rest, breathing harmful air, subjecting your body to a toxic envi
ronment, and living a lifestyle that is stressful and unhealthy.
obstructions include the

harmful substances into your

Additional factors that

can

be detrimental

to

the intrinsic

strength of your healing system include such unhealthy mental habits
as chronic worrying; entertaining thoughts of fear, anger, and rage;
mistrusting; holding onto resentment; maintaining a pessimistic and

74

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

cynical attitude; focusing on problems and negative circumstances;
depression; apathy; and giving up on life altogether. All these selfdestructive tendencies exhaust your body’s precious resources,
interfere with your healing system’s ability to do its job properly, and
increase the likelihood of a serious, life-threatening illness or chronic
debilitating disease taking hold of your body. These negative factors
can rob you of your natural state of health and sabotage an otherwise
wholesome, vibrant, rich, and rewarding life.
Alternatively, you can strengthen, nourish, and cooperate with
your healing system, and even enhance its performance, by learning
to listen to your body’s valuable communications, understanding
what is required to maintain your natural state of health. This will
help you fulfill your basic physical needs of wholesome food, water,
fresh air, plenty of sleep and rest, and appropriate exercise, while
paying attention to your body’s early warning signs when danger or
illness may be approaching.
As we discussed earlier, your body, which is naturally programmed
for health and vitality~ can remain free of illness until your final days,
which might be well over 100 years. But if you hope to come near this
goal, you must cooperate with your healing system, and learn to
strengthen and fortif~’ it, to keep it in optimum condition.
Your healing system responds to your deepest intentions and
most heartfelt desires. In this respect, you inwardly possess much
more power than you may be aware. If you want to be happy,
healthy, strong, vibrant, energetic, and active, you need to honor
and take proper care of your body, and understand the intimate rela
tionship between your body, mind, emotions, and spirit. If you do,
you can make your healing system your most powerful ally in your
quest for greater health and wellness.

Prevention
The
From

a

strategic

Key

to a

and tactical

Strong Healing System
viewpoint,

the best time

to

strengthen,

fortify, and cooperate with your healing system is not when you are
sick, but rather when you are healthy. So that your healing system
will stand

poised

and

ready

to

leap

into action

at

the first

signs

of

and

Strengthening

Fortifying

Your

it is better for it

distress,

be well

to

demonstrates, the time

to

in advance of any

prepared

As the famous

anticipated calamity~

75

Healing System

of the ill-fated Titanic

case

check whether there

are

enough

lifeboats

deck for all the passengers is not when the ship is sinking, but
before it leaves the port. The same is true with your healing system.
on

how

strengthen and fortify your healing system is easier
body is not already under siege from an illness or disease.

Learning

when your
This doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
this

to

knowledge.

focus

on

that if you are now ill you will not benefit from
On the contrary, if you are now ill, you need to

mean

this

important

depends on it.
Learning how

to

the absence of illness

than

In

ever.

fact,

your very life

strengthen and fortify your healing system in
or disease gives you the momentum and posi

to

consider the

onship

more

defeat any illness, should it attempt to violate the
and sanctity of your body. To further illustrate this point,

tive inertia

integrity

work

plight

of

a

boxer

of the world. The time

vying
to

for the

learn how

heavyweight champi
box for such a fight

to

when he steps into the ring against a formidable opponent,
but rather during the many hours of preparation when he is in train
is

not

for the

prepared, he can then step into that ring with
confidence and poise, actively calling upon his polished boxing skills
to defeat his less-prepared, inferior opponent. This kind of training,
preparation, and mindset is required to win. These requirements are
exactly the same for your healing system. To emerge victorious from
a health challenge, taking the time now to learn how to work with
your healing system will give you the edge you need to defeat any
ing

condition

I

meet

fight.

or

formidable disease that life may throw your way.

many

speaking

So

people

about

who choose

irresponsible people

of fear and denial, refuse

ditions. I

am

not to

speaking

to see

about

developed a confidence
lenges that face us all in

who

visit doctors

neglect

doctors for their

healthy,

mature,

regularly.

deteriorating

they

should

not

am

health

independent people

in their bodiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; abilities to meet the

this life. If

I

their health and then,

run

into

a

out

con

who have

physical

problem,

chal

instead

76

of

Your

rushing

off

to

the doctor, these
and

ing systems by nurturing
time and

place

to

ask for

listening

help

occasions when you learn to

how

listen

health is

challenged. Learning

will

you prevent illness and

to

more

activate their heal

their bodies. There is

from doctors, but you

rely

learning

know how

people
to

Extraordinary Healing System

on

and

can

your

own

definitely

a

minimize these

healing system. By

simple yet powerful
will
and
a
techniques, you
develop deep-seated inner confidence
principles
that your body has the capacity to stay healthy and to heal itself when its
help

may have

to

to

to

your

to

body

apply

some

strengthen and activate your healing system
heal yourself from any health challenge you

face in your life. You

can

learn

to

be your

own

best doctor.

Prescriptions for Strengthening
and Fortifying Your Healing System
following key ingredients constitute essential components of a
healthy program aimed at strengthening and fortifying your body’s
healing system, whether you’re focusing on prevention or on healing
from an existing health problem. By paying attention to each of
these factors and incorporating them into your life, you will be able
to most effectively tap into your body’s natural ability to heal itself
and significantly improve the quality of your life.
The

Healing System
As

we

Rx #1: Learn

discussed in

Chapter

to

2, your

Listen

body

to

Your

comes

Body

equipped

with

a

healing system that is constantly attempting to communicate with
you, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Through the language your
healing system speaks, it sends you valuable information to help you
know what its needs

are.

example, when your body is hungry, and you feel hunger
pangs in your stomach, your stomach will soon begin to rumble and
growl if you don’t put something in your belly. When your body is
For

tired and

requires sleep,

yawn. When your

your eyes will feel

heavy

and you will

begin

water, you feel thirsty, which
body
creates a strong urge to drink fluids. Similarly, when your bladder
becomes full and requires emptying, you feel the urge to urinate.
to

needs

Strengthening

and

Your

Fortifying

In addition

these

to

77

Healing System

more

obvious forms of communication,

body constantly sending you other more subtle information.
Depending on what kind of listener you are, you may or may not
be receiving and processing these other important messages. For
is

your

instance,
tense, upset, or under stress, you may notice a
sensation
in your chest, which makes your breath
tight or heavy
ing slightly difficult. You may also notice your heart skipping a

a

When you

are

beat

You may tl-y

ignore these sensations, as many people
do; but if this is an early warning from your heart, it could lead to
increased pain known as angina, which occurs when there is a lack
of adequate oxygen and blood flow to the heart. These symptoms
could be danger signals of an impending heart attack. Ignoring the
or two.

to

messages could have disastrous consequences.
You may feel queasy

a

are

nervous,

afraid,

knot in your stomach when you
confronted with an unpleasant situation. If
notice

or

or

a

linger, the sensations
might increase, or become persistent, which could be early warn
ing signs of an impending intestinal problem, such as an ulcer.
the situation is

Even

though

not

resolved and is allowed

some

of

listen

us

many of

us

don’t listen until

refusing

to

cooperate with

bodies

scream at us

they

us

by causing

to our
are

until

bodies

some

of the time,

actually screaming

we

intense

to

tend

pain.

to

This

at us

and

their needs. Our

pain

is the

body’s

ultimate communication strategy to try to get us to wake up to the
fact that we are ignoring one or more of its vital needs. To avoid pain
and

to

To

healthy, we
strengthen, fortify,

remain

need

to

become better listeners.

and cooperate with your

healing

system,

it is critical that you first become more aware of your body’s needs
and learn to listen to its early warning messages, in all their myriad

forms. When you become a good listener, your body will not need
to shout or scream at you to get your attention, and so you will not
need to experience pain, suffering, misery, illness, or disease.
How

Listen

to

Your

Body

following exercise is a simple yet powerful method to gain
vitally important messages from your body’s healing system:

The
to

to

access

78

o

Your

Aliow

yourself quiet

Extraordinary Healing System

alone time. Go into

close the door, and take the

phone

a

safe and

off the hook

so

quiet

room,

you won’t be

disturbed. If you cannot find a quiet place, try using earplugs.
Excuse yourself from your family duties, responsibilities, and

obligations

for

at

least 20

to

30 minutes. Make

everyone in

sure

your home understands that you are not to be disturbed until
you are finished. You may also want to put on some soft, relax

ing music

in the

background

to

help

set a

peaceful, quiet

mood.

o

position, preferably lying down on your back.
You may place pillows under your knees, or use blankets or pillows
anywhere else to help support your body so that you are comfort
able. Make sure your body is comfortable before you proceed.

o

Gently close your eyes and relax all the muscles
if it is melting into the surface beneath you.

o

As you close your eyes and relax your

Find

to

the

ment

comfortable

a

area

in your

body, bring

your

of your stomach and abdomen. Notice the

in that

region.

You

can even

body,

as

awareness

gentle move

top of the
of this movement. Feel the

place your

hands

on

help you become more aware
rhythmical, automatic movement of your breath as it flows in and
out of your body. Notice that when the breath flows into your
body, your stomach and abdomen gently expand and rise. Notice
that when the breath flows out of your body, your stomach and
abdomen gently contract and fall. Try not to control the rate or
depth of this movement; rather, just let your mind be a passive
observer as you watch and observe this gentle, automatic rhythm.
area to

o

o

o

Every time the breath leaves your body, feel all the muscles
your body releasing tension, and becoming more relaxed.
Focus your

awareness

within, becoming

aware

of how your

in

body

breathe.

feels from the “inside”

as

As you become

relaxed, observing the gentle, automatic

movement

more

you continue

of your breath

and

as

to

of your body,
starting from the tips

it flows in and

out

systematically scan your body,
and moving toward the top of your head. Visit all
parts in between, including your heart and chest area; your back
and spine; your shoulders and.neck; your groin, buttocks, and
genitals; and your stomach and abdominal area.
slowly

of your

toes

Strengthening

~

Fortifying

Your

79

Healing System

Notice any areas of discomfort, pain, or tension, which you may
not have been aware of before, in these areas. Also notice any
areas

this process may appear to be
relaxation exercise. In reality, however, much

glance,

First, when your

to

listen

to

nothing more than
more is going on.

system, which is the
main communications link between your mind and body, becomes
calmer and more focused. In this state, your mind also becomes

body

is

relaxed,

your

nervous

quieter, more alert, and concentrated. Because your mind and body
intimately connected, when your body is relaxed, your mental
powers for internal listening are also increased.
The awareness you gain from this exercise will spill over into
your daily life. You will notice a heightened sensitivity to your body’s
are

inner sensations, and
you

breathe, the food

to

its responses

to

your environment, the air

you eat, and your mental and emotional

state.

When you
cover

regularly practice listening to your body, you will dis
important messages from it that you were unable to hear or

feel before. You will become much

more aware

of the valuable infor

mation your body is communicating to you, and you will be better
able to use this information to respond to your body’s needs. Should

imbalances

body occur, you will be better able to
assist your healing
correcting these imbalances as it
restores your body to its natural state of health. By opening the door
to better communication and cooperation, learning to listen to your
body can become one of the simplest, easiest, and yet most power
ful ways to strengthen and fortif~’ your healing system.
or

insults

to

your

system in

Healing System R.x #2:
Pay Attention to Your Personal Hygiene
personal hygiene consists of the simple acts you perform daily
to help support and care for your body. These actions include such
common activities as brushing your teeth, moving your bowels, and
bathing. These simple routine habits, which may seem insignificant
at first, add up over the days, weeks, months, and years of an entire

Your

80

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

long run, exert a powerful influence on the
performance and efficiency of your healing system. In fact, your per
sonal hygiene can have a much greater impact on your ability to stay
healthy and resist diseases than your genes, the medicine you take,
lifetime and, in the

or

your doctor.

The elements of personal

in the

following sections con
tribute significantly to
body, and they can
strengthen and fortify your healing system. They can make a huge
difference in the quality of your life, and in your ability to stay well
and resist disease. If you want to live a long and happy, healthy life,
and you are interested in preventing problems before they develop,
or if you are currently struggling to regain your health, pay careful
attention to the following elements of hygiene.

hygiene

the health of your

Dental

Hygiene

and Your

Healing System

Good health

depends on proper digestion. Digestion begins in your
mouth with the chewing of food, which depends on the health of
your teeth. For this reason, regularly brushing your teeth and observ
ing good dental hygiene is important. When you brush regularly, you
prevent the possibility of plaque build-up, cavity formation, and gum
disease, all of which can impair digestion, interfere with proper nutri
tion, and adversely affect your healing system.

Bathing

and Your

Bathing helps

Healing System

preserve the function and

integrity

of your skin,

one
bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary defense organs. Regular bathing
leaves your skin feeling fresh and clean, and it removes bacteria and
germs that can accumulate on the surface of your skin. Bodies that

which is

of your

regularly are more prone to skin infec
Microorganisms, including staph and strep bacteria, can
invade your body after first appearing on your skin. Regular bathing
can aid your healing system by eliminating these infections at their

are

not

washed

or

bathed

tions.

source.

Elimination and Your

Bowel and Bladder

Healing System:
Hygiene

Because of normal internal metabolic processes,
toxic wastes are produced and accumulate in your

large amounts of
body during each

Strengthening

and

Fortifying

Your

81

Healing System

day. Failure to eliminate waste products and toxins promptly and
efficiently contributes to the steady build-up of these materials,
which can cause your healing system to bog down and become seri
ously impaired. Without regular elimination, you will literally drown
or suffocate in your own waste. Irregular elimination can contribute
to the onset of a number of serious, life-threatening diseases.
Solid, unwanted, toxic-waste products are eliminated through
the large intestines in your bowel movements, while liquids are elim
inated primarily through the kidneys and bladder, in the urine.
Ensuring the health of these organs is essential for your healing
system to operate with maximum efficiency~

Tips for Healthy Elimination
~

Drink

of fluids,

plenty

including

water.

body

Your

is

approxi

mately 70 percent fluid, and the more fluids you bring into your
body, the more efficiently your healing system can eliminate and
toxins from it. If your bowels are sluggish and need a
little coaxing in the morning, a large cup of hot water or a warm
remove

cell and tissue in your body, providing life-supporting energy for
metabolic activities, mechanisms of defense, and the processes of

and restoration

governed by your healing system. Just as any
high-powered, performance-oriented machine requires the
best fuel, your healing system requires pure and wholesome food to
ensure optimum performance and functioning. Here are a few basic
but critical guidelines:
repair
other

abundance of all of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basic nutri
tional requirements, over flesh foods. Although flesh foods are

which contain

of protein, you should minimize them in your
diet because of their tendency toward a higher fat content,

excellent

daily

an

sources

lack of fiber, and

potential

for

higher

concentration of

heavy

metals and environmental toxins.
~

eating packaged or processed foods, which often con
tain preservatives and additives that, while they increase shelf
life, may have harmful side effects. Packaged and processed
Minimize

foods

generally

lack the

vitality, fiber,

and nutrient

quality

that

fresh and whole foods contain.
~

Do

not

ity

and

be fanatical in

leniency

following a

is necessary

your food choices

are

limited

restrictive diet. Some flexibil

to

avoid

or

unavailable. The

becoming

stressed when
stress

of being

Strengthening

Fortifying

and

Your

rigid in your diet
might be providing.

detracts from whatever benefits your diet

too

o

Make

83

Healing System

surroundings are pleasant and enjoyable when
you eat. Your healing system’s ability to remain strong and active
is influenced not only by the chemical constituents of the foods
you eat, but by your meal patterns and the timing of your meals,
in addition to many other factors surrounding food. For example,
properly chewing food and the circumstances under which food
is eaten also play a role in the digestion and absorption of nutri
ents. When you take your meals in a peaceful atmosphere, diges
tion and assimilation are enhanced. (In the next chapter, I’ll offer
more specific information on nutrition for your healing system.)
sure

your

Healing System R.x #4:
Get Adequate Exercise
Movement is

a

and

fundamental

and, along with exercise,

healthy healing
maintenance of

it

Physical Activity

principle of all matter in the universe,
is an important key to a strong and

system. Movement and exercise

healthy joints

are

and muscles, and

essential for the

they

are

vital for

your circulation and the health of your cardiovascular system. Your
daily activity level is an integral part of your body’s ability to stay

healthy,

resist

illness, and

maintain

an

active and vibrant

healing

system.

The Benefits of Exercise for Your

Healing System

The benefits of exercise for your healing system are numerous.
Because your healing system is connected to all of the other organ
systems in your body, any exercise you do regularly will significantly
benefit your healing system. Among its many benefits, exercise

o

Energizes and

o

Clears

o

Improves
thinking

circulation

o

Improves

overall muscle

o

Improves

cardiac health

activates your

healing

system

depression
to

your

brain, which improves clarity of

strength

in your

body

84

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

Improves

blood flow

digestion

and elimination, and reduces

o

Improves

immune function

o

Improves

bone and

D

Imp roves

the

~

joint

improves

constipation

health

time of fractures and

healing

Improves complexion

and skin health

joint injuries

by increasing

blood flow

skin

to

blood flow

Improves

o

stomach and intestines, which

to

Just 30 minutes of
benefits, and more.
A few of the

to

genitals,

exercise each

which

will

day

sexual function

improves

bring

you all of these

types of exercise are listed in the
or more, and follow the guidelines

more common

sections. Choose

following
listed to strengthen

and

one

fortify your healing

system.

Walking
natural ways to exercise. In
traditional cultures, before the advent of the automobile and motor

Walking
ized

is

one

simplest

transportation, people

means

there

exercise, and

was

people

and

most

used their

of transport, in addition

Consequently,
to

of the

no

to

own two

their

need

use

as

their

primary

of domesticated animals.

aside

to set

in these cultures

legs

were

extra

time in the

generally

more

day

fit than

those of our modern societies.
If you

are

extremely busy, walking

is

a

good way

to

exercise and

to
to music or educational tapes, socialize with
use
friends, brainstorm ideas, or even conduct business meetings. I have

this time

listen

meetings with several close colleagues and friends
we were walking through scenic nature trails in Hawaii, where

often held medical
while

I live. If you

can

find creative ways to increase the amount of time
walking a part of your daily routine and lifestyle,

you walk, and make

healing system will automatically
thoroughly enjoyable activity.

your

benefit from

an

otherwise

Ti~ps for Walking
o

Choose

a

time of

best for you.

only

exercise.

Try

day

to

and

specific days of the week that work
to five days a week if this is your

walk three

*

Fortifying

and

Strengthening

Wear comfortable

shoes. If you live
going barefoot.
•

Find

•

the beach, and it is

not too

cold, consider

hopefully with interesting

could be outside in

indoors in

place

to

nature or even

heavily trafficked areas if possible
unhealthy to breathe, and the noise

scenery. This
a

large

mall.

because exhaust fumes

are

and distraction of the

may interfere with your concentration and relaxation.

Walk with

friend

a

Alternatively,
•

clothing, especially comfortable, supportive

near

Avoid

cars
I

85

Healing System

walk,

safe

a

place

Your

You may

portable
If you
a

you

of

are out

while,

listen

CD

or

start

family

can use

want to

tape

or

with

this time

to

player

shape
just

member

you have company.

be alone.

to

educational tapes with
you walk.

music
as

so

or

and haven’t done any exercise in
10 tol5 minutes a day on a flat,

a

quite
even

surface.
*

at a pace that’s comfortable for you. Recent research indi
that it is more important to walk regularly than to walk

Walk
cates

briskly.

You do

not

need

to

force

strain

or

or

be uncomfortable

in any way.
•

If all goes well, after one to two weeks, add 5 minutes per week so
that you can eventually build up to 30 to 60 minutes each day.

Bicycling
enjoyable way to exercise while you get out and
Bicycling is often considered easier on the joints than
running or other exercises. This exercise helps to build up the largest
muscles in your body, your legs and lower torso, while it also
Bicycling can
see

be

an

the world.

your cardiovascular health.

improves

T:ps for Bicycling
•

Avoid

•

Start
at a

•

heavily

at a

trafficked

areas

that have exhaust fumes.

comfortable pace and try

to

ride for 15

to

30 minutes

to

the proper

time.

Make

sure

height

for your

bicycle
legs.

your

and

seat

are

adjusted

86

Your

expert, avoid

a

Unless you

o

Maintain proper posture
are not

~

are an

as

Extraordinary Healing System

strapping your feet into

you ride

so

the

pedals.

that your back and knees

strained.

To protect your head from
Use

protective glasses

or

a

fall,

wear a

helmet.

eyewear for your eyes.

Swimming
If you have access to a pooi, pond, lake, or ocean, swimming can
be a wonderful form of exercise that provides all of the cardiac and

Swimming is especially beneficial if
or knee problems because it is a non-weight-bearing
gentle on the joints.

circulation benefits of walking.
you have back

exercise that is

Tips for Swimming
o

Start

out

slowly and

increase your

laps gradually, adding

one

lap

each time you swim.
o

Build up

a

Alternate strokes

thorough
o

Make

to at

least 20
to

sure

It is better

you

are

to

swimming

different muscles in your

comfortable with your
are not

forcing

swim slower and

you make it

swim

30 minutes of

each

body

day.

a more

workout.

swim, and that you
a

give

to

or

longer

enjoyable, the likelihood
regularly is much greater.

breathing
straining.

as

you

than faster and shorter. If
that you will continue

to

Weight Lifting
Thanks

the many colorful characters in the world of professional
bodybuilding, weight lifting has become increasingly popular. Pump
to

weight training can increase muscle strength and improve
physical health. It can also relieve mental and emotional
tension, and effectively strengthen and fortify your healing system.

ing iron

and

your overall

Tzps for Weight L~fĂ¨ing
a

light weights and move through the full range of
motion of the exercise youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing to ensure proper movement
of the muscles being exercised.

Start with

and

Strengthening

o

o

Fortifying

Your

Balance your workout so you
muscle groups at one time.
Focus

o

body,

o

Be

as you lift or
air into the weight.

smart

are sore

completely

the

move

day

after

a

rest to

strain

the

point
most gyms encourage the saying
medical perspective, ignoring pain
injury
to

orient your

routine.

same

muscles

grow and become stronger.

possible to overtrain and injure muscles
ing adequate rest between workouts.
or

to

a new

workout, wait until the

gone before you work these

Remember that muscles need

Never force

avoid

physiologically more cor
a weight, as if you were

and accept the help of a personal trainer
machine or while you are learning

If your muscles

to

It is

It is

o

exercises

on a new

pain
again.

same

joints.

exhale

is

o

weight-lifting

rect

self
o

and

properly as you work out.

blowing

all the

body, including your legs and back,
are
largest and most important mus
they usually are the ones most neglected.

Breathe
to

working

the

Stretch in-between and after
stiff muscles and

a

not

are

the lower

more on

because these muscles
cles in your

87

Healing System

if you do

not

allow

that you feel pain. Although
â&#x20AC;&#x153;No pain, no gain,â&#x20AC;? from a
in your

body can

result in

an

Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise describes any sustained exercise that increases your
breathing and heart rate and has the ability to make you break a

requires increased air delivery to your body,
which results in greater oxygenation of your tissues. You can achieve
these results in numerous ways and settings, from brisk walking,
running, calisthenics, hiking, biking, swimming, aerobic dancing
sweat.

Aerobic exercise

sports, games, and other fun exercises. Aerobic
exercise may also include the exercise you get while working on your
job if you perform manual labor or are regularly involved in activi

and exercises,

ties that

to

require

continuous

the

period

steady

of time.

movement

of your

arms or

legs

over

a

88

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Tzps for Aerobic Exercise
o

Take 5 tolO minutes

to

stretch and

warm

up before and after

exercising.
o

If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exercised in a while, start slowly and do
about 10 tol5 minutes at a time for the first week.

o

Make

sure

you

and that you

forcing or straining your muscles or joints,
gasping for air while you are breathing.

are not

are not

build up speed, distances, and
until you can do 30 to 60 minutes at

Slowly
o

of time

length
a

exercising,

time.

If you experience pain that persists in any part of your body,
ease off your exercising pace and intensity-. If the pain persists
with less exercise, consider

this is how serious

stopping altogether. Trying to
through the pain does not help. Doing
injuries and problems can develop.

Remember

and allow

even

ignore
o

only

a

the

pain

or

to rest

transition

to

force

your

next

some

down time before you make

activity-.

Stretching
Stretching can provide tremendous support for your healing system.
Stretching is becoming increasingly popular in the United States
and Europe with the acceptance and introduction of traditional ori
ental disciplines such as yoga and tai chi into Western cultures. Even
giant Sumo wrestlers in Japan stretch as part of their pre-match
warm-ups and rituals. Stretching is also making its way into the
medical establishment and is gradually becoming accepted as a
first-line intervention in the fields of rehabilitation, sports medicine,
and physical therapy for the treatment and prevention of neuromus
cular disorders and

injuries, including

back

pain, post-surgical

rehabilitation, and many forms of arthritis and other joint diseases.
When done

properly, stretching feels good. Stretching is some
naturally. When dogs or cats awaken from
thing
a nap, the first thing they do is stretch. Children also naturally stretch
and assume all kinds of twisting, flexible, and topsy-turvy positions as
they play and explore the different muscle groups in their bodies. They
do this as part of the natural process of developing the coordination
that is such a vital part of their normal growth and development.
that

most

animals do

Strengthening

As

and

Fortifying

Your

89

Healing System

result of the effects of stress,

aging, and increasingly seden
develop severe stiffness and
tary lifestyles, many people begin
pain and are unable to move their joints adequately as they age. This
process sets the stage for a whole host of joint diseases to set in,
including arthritis. Stiffness also increases the likelihood of injuries
because of the rigidity within the joints. Stretching can help reverse
a

to

these harmful tendencies.
I have

personally benefited from the stretching that comes from
yoga, the grandfather of all stretching systems. As an introduction to
proper stretching, there is no substitute for attending a gentle yoga
class once or twice a week for several months or longer. Because of
yogaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s increasing popularity, yoga classes are now available in almost
every city in the United States, Canada, Japan, and Europe. Before
yoga class, make sure the teacher has proper credentials
and the class is not too rigorous for you, particularly in the begin
ning. If you have particular health needs, make sure you call this to

you

start a

the attention of the teacher.

Tips for Stretching
*

Set aside 10 tol5 minutes

a

day

when you

can

be alone

to

do

your stretching. Gradually build up to 30 to 60 minutes a day,
either at one time or in divided periods, morning and evening,
as

*

your schedule

If you have
start out

*

Stretch

permits.
stretched before, and your muscles are stiff,
and gently. Remember not to force or strain.

never

slowly

as

stretch far

far

as

you

enough,

can

without

your muscles will

However, if you stretch

healthy.
you might damage
*

Do

not

could
*

*

damage

Breathe
enter

bounce

slowly

and

tear

too

not

far,

you will feel

when you stretch.
your muscles.
or

and

pain,

and

Again, doing

this

your muscles.

jerk

gently when

you

into the muscle cells that you

Whenever

If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
become flexible and

feeling pain.

stretch,
are

so

that oxygen

can

stretching.

possible, stretch in the morning, even though your
muscles will most likely be stiffer then. This is a great way to
start the day.

90

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

Rx #5: Get

Healing System

Enough Sleep

and Rest

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most basic physiological functions and one
important activities to strengthen and fortify your heal
ing system. When you sleep, your body has a chance to recharge
its batteries. Many illnesses are less symptomatic in the morning,
thanks to the refreshing and regenerative properties of sleep. In fact,
your healing system is most active when you are sleeping and rest
ing, since other physiological processes are held at a minimum and
cannot interfere with its work during these periods.
Alternatively, people who suffer from insomnia, or who do not
get enough sleep or rest throughout their day, are at risk of becom
ing sick. Sleep deprivation alters the proper functioning of your
healing and immune systems and predisposes you to heart disease,
chronic fatigue syndrome, endocrine and metabolic disorders, nerv
Sleep

wake up feeling rested and refreshed. Taking a nap in the afternoon
is also socially acceptable in many cultures, and many studies are
now beginning to show that naps can be beneficial. Incorporating a
60-minute power nap into your schedule,
weekends, can be a great asset to your healing system.

daily

30-

to

Alone Time: An

for Your
If it

runs

Important
Healing System

toy will
Your body is
or

down its batteries and stop working.
fact, many illnesses can be traced to the

important, principle. Just
seas

to

dock and

as

resupply,

from its incessant activities
regenerate, and

renew

Throughout
work,

our

our

every

ship

so, too,
to

least

on

Form of Rest

any machine

continuously,

at

neglect

eventually
no

of this

must come

wear

different. In

simple,

yet

in from the open

body must take time off
healing system to recharge,

your

allow your

its

energies.
busy lives, as

families, and

our

friends,

give

we

need

ourselves
to

over

take time

to

our

out to

be

precious
energies. As part of your regular
routine, it is important to experience what I call â&#x20AC;&#x153;alone timeâ&#x20AC;? for a

alone and

restore our

brief period each

day.

life

we

Strengthening

and

Fortifying

Think of alone time

Your

91

Healing System

mandatory solitary confinement—not in
a punitive way, but rather as a time for you to rest and heal, to quiet
down your engines, to be responsible only to yourself and your
body, with no phones to answer, no duties to perform, no scheduled
appointments,

no

as

commitments,

ries. Even if your alone time is

burdens,

no

only

15

or

no

worries,

20 minutes

a

no

day,

hur

in this

of

quiet solitude your batteries can recharge, and your healing
system can work more effectively to restore health.
While this need for rejuvenation is only common sense, as a
state

continually amazed at how many people expect their
keep going without recharging their batteries. When these
same people become sick and end up in the doctor’s office because
of frayed nerves, sleep deprivation, and physical exhaustion, most
are shocked to learn why they became sick in the first place. They
doctor,

I

bodies

to

are

am

unable

run-down

to see
state.

the connection between their illnesses and their

They

think their illness is caused

by

misfor

some

ill luck. The sad fact is that many of these folks have not yet
discovered the life-sustaining practice of spending time alone with
tune or

themselves.

They have not learned how to tell their families or their
bosses that they need time alone to recharge their batteries. In fact,
it is commonly reported that people who suffer from major, chronic,
debilitating diseases often complain that they have no time for
themselves, that they are just following scripts that other people are
constantly imposing on their lives. Insisting on alone time is one
way to stand up for the needs of your body.
Learning to say “No” to excessive demands on your life energies
is mandatory if you want your healing system to remain strong and
healthy. Being alone allows your body time to conserve energy, and
it allows your mind time

to

settle down and focus within

so

you

can

listen and cooperate with your healing system. When you are quiet,
alone, relaxed, and peaceful, your healing system functions best.
Taking the time to be alone is one of the most powerful things you
can

do

to

strengthen

and

fortify your body’s healing

Healing System Rx #6:
Manage and Minimize the
In the field of

system.

Stress in Your Life

engineering, stress is defined as the amount of strain
experienced by a system as the result of an applied external force or

92

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

load. If the system is not flexible, or if it is unable to adapt to the
force or load, it can break under the strain. This description is sim
when you experience stress. If stress is
prolonged or too great, your mind and your body can suffer from a
breakdown in health.
ilar

to

what

happen

can

Although

stress

external forces such
these

war,

sources

can
as

are,

be caused

by major disruptive
disasters, political turmoil, and even

obviously

natural

for

most

of

us,

far less

common,

less pro

dangerous than the stress caused by our own
fast-paced, hectic lifestyles.
properly, can do considerable harm to
your healing system, wasting and depleting your precious physical,
mental, and emotional energy while it causes fatigue and exhaus
tion, which renders you susceptible to illness and disease. Stress
interferes with your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural ability to grow, repair, and restore
longed,
thought

and less

processes and our
Stress, if not handled

normal

aged

healthy

tissues. Your immune system

and inefficient with

been linked

to a

significant

number of

major

and

can

also become dam

prolonged

serious

illnesses,

stress.

Stress has

including

heart

high blood pressure, ulcer, stroke, and cancer, and it has
implicated as a significant contributing factor in many others.

disease,
been

Stress is unavoidable

at

times, but it is important

to

be able

to

effectively and to minimize its impact. You can accom
through a variety of proven methods and techniques.
plish
However, you need to practice and be familiar with these techniques
and methods well in advance, so that, when you do experience
stress, you can easily apply them to neutralize and handle the stress
more effectively. Again, all this is nothing more than sound preven
manage it

this

tive medicine.

Stress management has been shown to be a vital factor in the
successful reversal of major chronic diseases such as heart disease,

hypertension, diabetes, and cancer.
Learning to prevent and reduce stress in your life, in addition to
managing whatever stress may be currently afflicting you, will allow
you to feel much more calm and relaxed. And effectively managing
stress will liberate tremendous amounts of energy in your body that
your healing system can use. Fatigue will vanish, and your healing
system will perform much more efficiently, enabling you to more
effectively resist and eliminate illness and disease.

and

Strengthening

Fortifying

Your

93

Healing System

stress-management techniques are currently
their common goal your ability to effectively
calm and relax your mind and body, which frees up energy for heal
ing. In Chapter 6, you will be introduced to some of these methods

Many popular

taught.

and

All have

as

techniques.

Heating System
Your

daily

Rx #7:

Enjoy Your Work

work routine, your work ethics, and your attitudes

toward your work influence the functioning and performance of
your healing system. For example, you might spend most of your
time

at

work. In this

setting,

you

may have

to

contend with

coworker tensions, bosses, deadlines, company policies, commuting
to and from work, and other issues, which require a substantial
investment of your life energies. In this respect, your work and your
work environment may be having a more significant effect on your

physical

and mental health than

Many people

work

at

anything else.

home, with less energy spent interacting

commuting through dangerous traf
office, but other problems may present

with coworkers and bosses and

fic back and forth

themselves, such
the

inability

to

to

an

the intrusion of work into the home space, and
turn off the work mode when they are interacting
as

with their families.

Many people

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like their

reveal, and this dissatisfaction

healing

jobs,

can

polls and surveys
damaging effect on the

as numerous

have

a

system. Toxic emotions that have built up in the form of
can exhaust the immune system and deplete internal

resentment

healing resources. Many people who develop chronic illnesses report
feelings of long-term animosity or ambivalence for their work, often
feeling hopelessly trapped in dull and boring routine. Many other
fortunate souls, having made peace with their vocation and having
found their niche in the world, report that their work is like play. I
a

discovered this

positive perspective

to

be the

case

with

pilots

while

working as a flight surgeon in the Air Force. They would often
me that they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe they were being paid to fly; they felt
like they should be paying the Air Force for the opportunity to fly.
Pilots and many other people who enjoy their jobs and the com
pany of the people they work with, and of the people they serve,
consistently demonstrate superior health. They feel they are part of
I

was

tell

94

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

they are uplifted by the sense of performing a valuable
community and fellow human beings. These positive
feelings work to fortify and strengthen the integrity of their healing
a

and

team,

service

their

to

systems.

cultures consider work

Many

your work and the services you

to

be

a

form of worship, wherein

provide,

however humble,

are

an

important opportunity for you to give back to the world. This
perspective can enhance your self-worth, uplift your spirits, and
positive emotions that stimulate your healing system and
improve your vitality. In fact, many studies are now revealing that
retirees who regularly volunteer their time in local community serv
ice enjoy much greater health and live much longer than their peers
who do not participate in such activities.
If you are currently unhappy with your work, it is imperative to
generate

either

change your attitude toward your work so that it can become
more meaningful to you, or, if this is impossible, to find work that
is more rewarding and enjoyable. Whether you work with others
part of a big company, or you work alone, learning to enjoy your
work and focusing on its positive aspects will be health-enhancing,
life-promoting, and great benefit to your healing system.
as

a

Healing System

Rx #8:

One of the best ways

through play. Play

to

EnjoyYour Play
reduce tension and

represents

a

carefree

state

in your life is
of mind that is vital to
stress

your overall health. This means taking the time to cultivate a sense
of humor, and to be spontaneous, creative, and involved in such fun
activities as sports, music, dance, the arts, or pursuing your favorite
hobbies. I have met many people who did everything wrong from a

health
keen

standpoint; however,

senses

lived well

because of their

of humor, and their

beyond

ability

to

light-hearted attitudes,
play and have fun, they

their life expectancy.

schools, kindergartens, and elementary schools
throughout the world, play is an integral part of the daily routine
In

nursery

and curriculum for all children. A child who does

play
also

as

is considered

a waste

unhealthy

know how

to

and abnormal. This standard should

adults.

apply
Many adults
to

not

become workaholics who

of time. On the contrary,

regard play or having fun
of humanityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest

most

Strengthening

and

Fortifying

Your

ideas and inventions have

95

Healing System

come

from

people who

knew how

to

play

their powers of imagination. In fact, most inventors claim
their greatest ideas came to them not when they were actively pur

and

use

suing them,

but rather when

they

were

involved in fun and frolic

simply enjoying themselves. Many successful businessmen
professional people understand that, to be truly happy and
healthy, it is important to know how to play.
Play is an effective way to strengthen your healing system
because it helps you forget about time. In this state of timelessness,
you are not worrying about the future or feeling sorrowful, grievous,
or guilty about the past. Rather, you are completely absorbed and
and

were

and

focused in the here and

now.

Freed from the mental and emotional

forces that drain your energies and interfere with your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inter
nal processes of repair and regeneration, when you are playing, your

healing system gets recharged. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When you play, a light-hearted spirit
prevails that. influences brain biochemistry and causes the release of
beneficial hormones, neurotransmitters, and other powerful chemi
cals that strengthen and support the activities of your healing
system. The following story demonstrates the healing power of play.
Derek, a physician and personal friend who had been suffering
from severe back pain with sciatica, was looking for a quick fix so he
could get back to work as soon as possible. However, he couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
find a surgeon who would operate on him promptly, so in a moment
of exasperation he decided to go surfing. In his joy and enthusiasm
for being in the ocean and doing something that he loved, he totally
forgot about his pain and predicament. When he came out of the
water, Derek was surprised to discover that his pain was gone! He
became completely healed, and although his condition has not
returned to this day, Derek now makes sure to take regular time out
of his schedule

Play

to

go

surfing.

also encompasses the field of entertainment. Nearly every
use of this aspect of play to pass on important

culture has made

moral, spiritual,

or

cultural lessons

to

upcoming generations,

often in

the forms of traditional songs, dances, poetry,
are

being entertained,

you

are

usually

in

a

or stories. While you
more relaxed frame of

mind, detached from your worries and problems. At these times,
deep emotions can often be stirred up and released, causing laughter

96

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

or tears.

Again,

these

deep

emotional responses

the release of

trigger

powerful stimulants
for your healing system. Live events such as concerts, plays, or sport
ing events carry an added benefit of creating intimacy and a feeling
of belonging to a larger community as you share a collective, live
energy that occurs when people are gathered together to focus on a
common goal or activity. This sense of community can help combat
the feelings of isolation and loneliness that often plague people who
are struggling with health issues, lending further support to the
work of the healing system.
Creativity is another important aspect of play. Pursuing hobbies,
including the arts, music, singing, dancing, painting, writing, or
participating in any one of a number of other activities involving the
beneficial hormones and chemicals that

serve as

of your hands and your more artistic side can also be a way of
strengthening and forti~ing your healing system. Many people have
overcome life-threatening health conditions by becoming involved
use

deeply personal, meaningful, and fun
for them. In fact, having your creativity stifled is now considered a
major risk factor for contracting a chronic disease.
Cultivating the creative aspect of your spirit and remembering
to develop a light-hearted attitude that fosters a spirit of play is
important. From a health perspective, play needs to be an integral
part of your daily life. Play can strengthen your basic natural energy
in creative

projects

and activate
that

are an

that

important

were

internal mechanisms of

essential part of your

Balancing Your Work
Both work and

play

are

and

your

and your

sense

personal

Meaningful

provides

these

to

your heart, and focused in the present.

you in

Maintaining

a

a

an

important

provide

opportunity

for your

helps
to

define

give back

carefree, loving frame of mind, connected

the world.

system.

balancing

work lets you

you with

to

nervous

but

needs. It also lifts your self-esteem,

of purpose, and

Play keeps

system.

Play

equally important,

activities in your life is essential.

family

healing

and recovery

repair

Play

relaxes your

body, mind,

proper balance between work and

and

play

Strengthening

enables you
and

fortify

need

to

Fortifying

and

to

experience

healing
weighed and

Healing System

all these aspects of life, which

system. Both work and

your

be

97

Healing System

Your

play

are

helps

to

strengthen

important, and both

balanced with each other.

Rx #9:

Develop

Effective Social Skills

antiquity, people have lived together in families, clans, tribes,
communities to organize themselves, and to nurture and care

Since

and

for each other. Like bees and
We

depend

on

each other

Studies show that

to

good

ants,

make

humans

are

also social

creatures.

lives

meaningful.
strengthen and fortify our
lonely and isolated life can be

our

social skills

systems, and that living a
harmful to those systems.
Many people with serious illnesses have

healing

reported significant
they improve their socializing
improvement
skills. These activities have included visiting with friends, or partic
ipating in some kind of volunteer community-support work, either
at a day-care center, a senior center, a hospital, or some other chari
table organization.
Well-known doctor and author Dr. Bernie Siegel tells a story to
help illustrate this point. He tells of a special pass he got from God
in their health when

to

visit both Heaven and Hell. In

Hell, he

saw

many bowls of

hot,

served with

long-necked spoons. This soup
steaming soup being
didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look too bad until he realized that the hungry people in Hell
were

unable

were too

to

long,

feed themselves because the necks of their spoons
and they kept missing their mouths with the spoon

fuls of soup. When he got

to

Heaven, he

surprised to see the
same long-necked spoons. However,
saw that the people in Heaven had
was

bowls of soup and the
upon closer observation, he
learned to place the spoons in each othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; mouths,
same

so

that everyone

got fed.

Fostering a spirit of cooperation and sharing by building and
developing strong social ties has been scientifically proven to
improve survival. Because of the powerful biochemical effect that
emotions exert on your healing system, many studies are now show
ing that people with inadequate social support who are lonely and
socially isolated are at risk for developing serious, life-threatening

98

Your

diseases.

physical

According

to

Extraordinary Healing System

the research of heart

Dean Ornish, social isolation and

a

lack of intimacy

specialist

are

Dr.

considered

top risk factors for the development of heart disease, the numberone killer in the Western world.

Good social skills
childhood. However,

begin

as

with

are

usually

learned in

continues

to soar,

and many

family

the divorce

rate

and

families

are broken apart, it is clear that many people will have to
reach out beyond their families to their friends, colleagues, coworkers,

get the support they need to remain healthy. Doing so
can strengthen their healing systems and can help to prevent physical
illnesses associated with a lack of social support and intimacy~
and others

to

Animals

are

also

capable

of

giving and receiving unconditional
an important form of social support
be isolated from family or friends.

love and,

as pets, can serve as
those who may otherwise
Senior citizens living alone who have pets have been shown to be at
much lower risk for developing heart disease and other serious ill

to

nesses

than those who do

not

have pets and

are

living

with similar

health conditions.

Developing
and connected

important

to

effective social skills allows you to feel supported
others. Knowing that your life counts, that you are

to

others, that

purpose for
emotions that
a

you make

here

a

difference, and that

you have

uplifting, inspiring, life-affirming
being
help to strengthen and nourish your healing system.
create

als and nutrients of the earth, for its very survival. Ancient physicians
and healers understood this basic principle of health and healing. Of
course,

now

that

our

medical science has advanced

considerably,

we

great deal more about these natural elements and the
in
complex ways which we interact with them. And contrary to what
we might expect, with all of the technological advances of modern
have learned

a

relationship with
healing has only increased.

medicine, the importance of
ments to our

health and

Natural elements that
can

also

serve as

our

are

critical

powerful therapeutic

these natural ele

the survival of your body
agents and medicines that aid
to

Strengthening

and

Fortifying

Your

99

Healing System

and support your healing system when you are ill. And used preven
tively, these natural elements can help to keep, you healthy for many
years

to come.

Understanding

common resources

tify your healing

from

nature

and

making intelligent use
can significantly strengthen

of these

and for

system.

Air
As you probably know, the air you breathe contains the vital element
of oxygen, which nourishes and energizes every cell and tissue in

body and is an essential ingredient to your healing system and
overall
state of health. Oxygen is so important that it is the first
your
medical agent administered to a critically ill or Injured person,
your

whether the condition is

heart attack,

a gunshot wound, or any
life-threatening emergency. Oxygen is routinely stored
purpose in ambulances and in all hospital emergency rooms,
a

other serious
for this

operating

rooms,

and intensive-care units.

Good, clean, fresh air, characteristically found
places in the world, can have life-enhancing effects

in
on

particular
personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

a

health. This fact is reflected in better health statistics for those

places. Generally, you can findbetter quality air where there is less
industry and less pollution, and where steady breezes, ample water,
vegetation, and mountains or hilly terrain help to purify, filter, and
increase the quality of the, air you breathe. Heavily forested areas
usually have excellent air quality because of the vblurninous oxygen
so many trees produce.
Your body and your healing system deserve the best air you can
find. If you find yourself indoors or in any environment with com
promised air quality, walk outside or go to another place where there
is good air. If you are currently battling an qlness or are seeking to
improve the quality of your health, pay close attention to the qual
ity of the air you regularly breathe~
Fresh, outdoor air is almost always preferable to indoor air,
which

become stale and stagnant, and which tends to attract
mold, dust, and dust mites. Indoor air can also play host to toxic
can

fumes,

vapors, and other chemical aerosol irritants which, if ventila
tion is poor, can accumulate and concentrate. Fortunately, many

indoor filters,

improve

the

purifiers, and humidifiers are now
quality of the indoor air you breathe.

available

to

104

Your

applications

Extraordinary Healing System

of heat and the mechanisms

natural support for your

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing

by

which heat

provides

system:

n

Heating padc relax muscles and improve blood flow, improve
oxygenation of tissues, and help reduce swelling. Heating pads
are effective in the treatment of back pain, muscle strains and
spasms, joint injuries, arthritis, and many other conditions.

c

Hot

water

bottles work

as

heating pads

do and

are

used in similar

conditions, including abdominal pain, gas, and constipation.
o

Hot foot baths

neck and chest
treatment
o

of

the feet

keep

warm

and

They also are
respiratory diseases.
area.

improve

blood flow

effective and

helpful

to

the

in the

swelling and help draw toxins out of
areas. They help improve blood flow to the area being
compressed, and they can be very effective in the treatment of
Hot compresses reduce

affected

abscesses, boils, and other skin infections and health conditions.
cJ

Hot water, teas, and broths relieve

branes. These

liquids

are

congestion

often effective in the

of

mucous mem

treatment

of throat

infections, sinus and nasal congestion, bronchitis, and other

res

They can
help to relax and soothe your
piratory
colon and intestines, which aids digestion and elimination.
infections.

also

o

Hot showers open and clean pores of the skin, helping to elimi
nate toxins while removing bacteria from skin surfaces.

o

Hot baths relax and

cles.

They

are

improve

blood flow

helpful for back pain,
injuries.

injured mus
pain, painful joints,

to sore or

muscle

and neuromuscular
o

Saunas utilize heat
the

o

induce

sweating and

eliminate toxins from

body.

Steam baths break up
tract. They also relieve

from the
o

to

phlegm and mucous in the respiratory
congestion and help to eliminate toxins

body.

Jacuzzis provide

a

hot-water massage

to

aching joints

and

mus

cles.
o

Infrared

heat relieves

pain

bruises, and tendonitis.

of muscle

injuries, strains, sprains,

Strengthening

and

Fortifying

using heat

Note: In

Your

of any kind, it is

overdo it and burn your

105

Healing System

important

to

remember

not to

body.

Water
Water is the

arguably

the

most

commonly

most

essential and

integral

will first look for

that life exists

important

or

to

signs

found substance in all

biosystems

and

of all natural elements. Water is

so

life that scientists

of

water

exploring other planets
they declare the possibility
that planet. You can further

before

may have existed

on

appreciate
importance of water when you consider that it is the
dominant element in your body, constituting about 70 percent by
the

weight and volumeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not surprisingly,

about the

same

percentage of

the surface of the earth contains.

water

We

look upon water, known as the universal solvent,
essential nutrient for our healing systems, but also

can

not

only
therapeutic agent and medicine. In addition to keeping our bodies
healthy, water is almost always required in abundant amounts as a
support for our healing systems when illness or disease sets in.
Maintaining adequate water intake is one of the simplest and
most powerful ways to ensure good health and rapid recovery from
illness or injury. Inadequate water intake can hamper the perform
ance of your healing system and lead to dehydration, congestion,
stagnation, obstruction, infection, and disease. You can determine
whether you are getting enough water by monitoring the color of
your urine. Dark yellow urine, which occurs when your body is
trying to conserve water, invariably means that your body is low on
fluids. Clear urine, like tap water, or very light yellow urine, usually
indicates adequate water intake. If you are taking certain vitamins,
such as the B and C vitamins, your urine can be artificially discol
ored; in this situation, monitoring whether or not you are getting
enough water may be difficult. Also, because your urine tends to be
more concentrated when you sleep, it is usually darker first thing in
the morning.
When you are ill, increasing your water intake is important, to
help improve the flow of fluids in and out of your body. These extra
fluids assist your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system to eliminate toxins, which
are increased during periods of illness. Many illnesses respond dra
matically if you drink only water for 48 hours or more. I have
as an

as a

106

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

personally seen cases of many diseases, including respiratory condi
tions, gastroenteritis, gall bladder disease, gout, Crohn’s disease, and
many others dramatically improve by following this method. The
importance of drinking plenty of water daily cannot be overstated.
In addition to drinking water, you can also employ water in
many other ways as a natural and valuable support for your healing
system. In fact, in Chinese medicine and the ancient medical sys
tems of India, unique and specific internal cleansing techniques

employ the use of water to help remove blockages and restore health
to particular areas. In the West, water has also been used effectively
in nasal

douches,

Sitz baths, and

enemas,

nebulizers, hot compresses, fomentations,

simple soaking.

Minerals of the Earth and Your

The science of nutrition examines food
their biochemical

impact

on

coveries

the earth’s

trace

that

nearly

and core, from arsenic

crust

within the human

body

derived from the earth and

elements

you,without which

revealing

are now

sources

the health of the human

hydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and
natural elements around

Healing System

in minute

you could

single

every
to

all derivatives of the

not

live. Scientific dis

mineral element found in

molybdenum, has
These minerals

quantities.

been discovered

to

Many

the

body’s

known

of these vital mineral elements

as

eIectro~’tes.

include sodium,

functioning

Some of the

they participate
mission of

play

as

more

critical roles within your

electrically charged

body’s

nerve

roles in

supporting your healing system, and

in such diverse functions

fluid levels,

impulses,

as

the

beating

kidney function, brain

bone formation, and many

of your heart, regu

function and the
more.

Any

disrupts

the flow of

the transmission of electrical

in your

body,

tant

in

impulses

they

are

patients

routinely

admitted

trans

disturbance

electricity

which often

illness, and possibly death. These mineral electrolytes

that

chemicals

well known of these elements

in the intricate balance of these minerals

serious

are

potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorous.

Electrolytes play important
lation of the

they

health.

internal environment,

body’s

inciden

are not

tal contaminants; rather, controlled studies have determined that

essential

carbo

body. Proteins,

are

are so

and

causes

impor

measured and monitored in the blood 24 hours

to

the intensive-care unfts of all

m~or hospitals.

Strengthening

and

Fortifying

Your

107

Healing System

Salt
Salt is abundant in

sea water

and found

throughout nature. There
throughout the world that consist

many different types of salts
of various combinations of minerals. However,
are

which consists of sodium and chloride and is used in
is the

cooking and as

widely distributed, and
biologically most important salt. Salt consisting of sodium and chlo
ride is an essential natural ingredient in all living systems.
In addition to the necessity for a certain amount of dietary salt
intake, salt is also a valuable natural support for your healing system.
Sodium and chloride are arguably the most important electrolytes in
your body, and they play a key role in the functioning of your heal
ing system. Salt also has important therapeutic applications in both
the prevention and treatment of various conditions and illnesses.
Because of its ability to absorb water and draw fluid out, its preser
vative effect, and its ability to kill bacteria and other harmful
microorganisms, humans have relied on salt for centuries as a valu
able aid in curing and preventing infections. Learning to work with
salt is a safe and effective, simple yet powerful way to assist the work
of your healing system.
The following list is a small example of how salt can assist your
healing system:
a

seasoning,

~

most

well-known,

table salt,

common

most

Salt packs, salt soaks, and salt fomentations
to

intact skin with

warm

water

to

are

help

applied externally

draw

out

unwanted

fluids, swelling, and toxins from various skin and soft-tissue
infections, including carbuncles, furuncles, cysts, and abscesses.
~

Salt

water

also

can

be taken

of intestinal

internally as

an

aid in various forms

cleansing, prevent and assist in the treatment of
food poisoning, diarrhea, and nausea and vomiting. (Note:
to

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When taken
medical
~

Salt-water
sore

*

internally,
supervision.)

Salt-water

be

nose

extremely

water must

be used under

be very effective in
and tonsillitis.

gargles

throats,

salt

can

drops,

or

the

use

effective in the

qualified

treating pharyngitis,

of salt-water nasal douches,

treatment

of nasal

can

allergies, hay

fever, rhinitis, colds, congestion, and sinus infections.

108

o

Your

Extraordrnary Healing System

Nebulized saline is another form of salt

effective aerosol spray used in the

respiratory

water

treatment

employed

as

an

of asthma and other

conditions.

Clay
clay as a natural support for the healing
system among traditional indigenous cultures is well documented.
Pharmaceutical-grade clay, a naturally occurring substance some
times referred to as bentonite, is readily available at most drug or
health food stores. Applied to the skin as a paste, clay works well as
a natural drawing agent. In addition to its ability to draw off toxins
and reduce swelling from infections, clay works with your healing
system by supplying valuable trace elements and minerals that are
absorbed into the body in minute but significant quantities. Clay
applications can speed the healing of insect bites, boils, abscesses,

The

therapeutic

use

of

and many other skin conditions; it can be used alone or in combi
nation with other substances, such as aloe, salt soaks, or ginger
compresses.

Clay

absorb toxins

European
health and

gentle, safe, and effective, even in difficult cases.
internally as an intestinal purifier to help
from the intestines; it has been employed like this in

Clay

also

can

is

be taken

folk medicine for centuries

regulate

as

a

way

to

improve

colon

bowel function.

Plants and Herbs and Your

Healing System

Throughout the ages, man has relied on the healing properties of
various plants and herbs. And although most doctors in modern
countries have come to rely on medicines derived from synthetic
pharmaceutical compounds, the use of plants and herbs has experi
enced

a

dramatic comeback in Western societies in

recent

years.

plants, when used with intelligence and discretion,
help strengthen and fortif~r your healing system.
Herbs and

can

natural medicines have proven track records in
including China, Japan, and India. Even until

Many of these
other countries,
recent

times in

of

our

own

Western

medicine, botany, which is the

required course in
fact, many modern drugs and medicines
natural world of plants.
study

plants,

was

a

most

medical schools. In

have their

origins

in the

Strengthening

Here

are a

effective in

r~

and

Fortifying

Your

few of the

supporting

most common

your

109

Healing System

plants

and herbs that

healing system:

Aloe grows like a succulent cactus. Its leaves contain
liquid gel that has healing and antiseptic qualities. Aloe

applied topically
other

to

cuts, scrapes,

in which the

injuries
exposed. Aloe helps
also

burns,

to

are

raw

clear

a

can

be

skin infections, and

surfaces of skin have been

oniy to fight and prevent infection but
healing process. It is safe and gentle, and it
internally in limited quantities to help heal
not

aid the actual

be taken

can even

ulcers in the mouth, stomach, and intestines.
t~

Ashwaganda

is

a

traditional herbal

remedy

from India that has

been used for thousands of years as a tonic and to enhance nat
ural host resistance factors. Ashwaganda can be taken long term
to
r~

increase one’s stamina and

Astragalus

is

ancient

an

plant

bolster defenses and appears
ratory illnesses.
t~

strength.
medicine from China. It is used
to

be

especially

effective for

to

respi

especially effective in
healing system repair damage done to small, fragile
assisting
blood vessels, particularly those of the eyes and kidneys. Bilbérry
may also be effective in treating certain types of macular degen

Bilberry

aids in wound

healing

and is

the

eration and other eye diseases, trace blood in the urine,
as venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
~

Comfrey

is known

as

“knit bone” in American and

folk medicine for its

the

as

well

European

of fractures.

ability to expedite
healing
Comfrey also aids in healing wounds of the skin, mucous mem
branes, respiratory system, and intestines. It can be applied
externally as a poultice or taken internally. The leaves or roots of
this plant can be used, although the roots are not recommended
for internal
~

use.

Chinese medicine used

support the health of
the female reproductive system, and it has become increasingly
popular in the West. It is often used to help alleviate menstrual

Dong Quai

is

a

to

cramps and balance estrogen metabolism.
r~

Echinacea is

a

popular

herb

commonly

used in the

early

stages

110

o

Your

of mild

respiratory infections;

healing

and other conditions.

Garlic is used

as

a

Extraordinary Healing System

it may also be

in wound

helpful

blood

have lowered their blood

claim

purifier. Many people
pressure with garlic. Used

it is often effective for the

treatment

of

cold

a

or

to

in soups,

respiratory

infection.
o

Ginger is a root that can be grated and used fresh, or dried or
powdered. It can also be used in the form of a tea. Ginger helps
to create heat in the body. It is offered on sea voyages as stan
dard fare to soothe the stomach and help prevent motion
sickness. As a tea, ginger is very effective in cases of pharyngitis
and tonsillitis. It can often curtail the spread of strep throat if
the illness is caught in its earlier stages. Ginger can also be
applied to the skin in the form of a poultice; it helps to draw out
toxins in

o

of skin and soft-tissue infections.

cases

Gingko is derived
earth. Gingko has
and

even

improve

from

of the oldest

one

living plants

on

been used in Oriental medicine for centuries,

Western scientific research has verified that it

blood flow

alertness, and

the

to

the brain,

increasing memory and

can

mental

This herb is also used in the

treat
eyesight.
ment of tinnitus, migraine headaches, vertigo, and as a possible
agent in stroke prevention. It may also prove helpful in cases of
even

Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease.
o

Ginseng is a tonic herb traditionally valued in the Orient for its
ability to prolong life, increase energy in the body, and improve
sexual stamina. Some studies suggest that ginseng may improve
the health of the

the

system, as well
increasing the tone and

elderly, by

nervous

cardiac function in

as

contractility

of heart

muscles.
o

Guggal comes

from

used for centuries
shown
o

Kava

guggal

root

relax the

is

It is used

of insomnia and

pain

by

help

weight. Studies
lowering cholesterol.

reduce

traditional medicine from

nerves.

caused

to

resin that grows in India. It has been

be effective in

to

a

a tree

anxiety.

as a

Polynesia

have also

that

muscle relaxant and for mild

Kava

root

also

can

muscle spasms. Because it

helps
cases

be useful for back

can

induce drowsi

Strengthening

ness,

and

Kava

root

111

Healing System

Your

should

mechanical

operating
~

Fortifying

not

be used when you

driving

are

or

equipment.

helps to support the health of the liver. Many
with
elevated liver enzymes resulting from chronic hep
patients
atitis and other liver conditions have reported significant

Milk thistle

in their symptoms and

improvement

laboratory readings

of

their liver enzymes after they have taken milk thistle for several
months. The mechanisms by which milk thistle supports and
heals the liver is still unknown, yet a
ventionally trained liver specialists are

~

some

of their

Neem

comes

patients.

from the leaves of the Neem

the traditional food

St.

Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

wort

notice its

psychiatric

generally quite

*

need

tree

India, which is

in

camels. Neem is used in

powerful

as a

widely prescribed

effects, and

ventional

*

is

might

You

by

eaten

medicine from India

sant.

growing number of con
now recommending it to

blood
in

Ayurvedic

purifier.

Europe

as

an

antidepres

take this herb for several weeks

to

you should

not

medication.

take it with any other

By itself, St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

to

con

wort

is

safe and often effective.

ginger family. The dried, powdered
root is the part of the plant most often used. Turmeric gives
curry powder its characteristic yellow color. Turmeric applied to
the skin as a paste is often effective in a variety of skin disorders.
Taken internally, it helps to improve the health of the liver and
eyes. It also is now being used as an adjunct in the treatment and
prevention of certain cancers and liver disease.
Thrmeric

comes

from the

Valerian has been used in folk medicine

insomnia, and it is

quite

as an

effective in mild

aid

cases

to

anxiety

and

of these condi

tions. Valerian is also sometimes recommended

as

a

gentle

muscle relaxant.

Many

natural medicines

be careful that

potent, so it is important to
conflict with any other medicine you are
are

quite

they do not
currently taking. As with any new substance you take into your
body, if you experience untoward effects, discontinue its use and
seek the advice of a qualified health professional for further recom
mendations.

112

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Closing Thoughts on Strengthening
and Fortifying Your Healing System
deep canyons and valleys out of
mountains. Added to other grains of sand, a tiny grain of sand can
make a large beach or vast desert. Similarly, individual health factors,
which may seem insignificant and unworthy of our attention when
considered alone, form the very foundation for strengthening, forti
fying, and activating your healing system when they are added
together. In combination, these factors also can substantially improve
your overall health and the quality of your life. These factors include
listening to your body; paying attention to your personal hygiene;
maintaining a healthy diet; doing regular exercise, stretching, and
stress management; balancing work and play; developing good social
skills; and incorporating healthy natural elements into your daily
routine, such as drinking plenty of water, breathing fresh air, getting
adequate sunshine, and using natural herbs and minerals when
appropriate.
In the next chapter, we will look more closely at the critical role
diet and nutrition play in strengthening and fortifying your healing
system. By following a few simple dietary and nutritional guidelines,
you will not only greatly improve your overall health, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll also
gain the maximum benefits from your extraordinary healing system.
In time,

falling raindrops

carve

CHAPTER 5

Fueling Your Healing System

igh-performance machines, from racing cars to rocket ships,
all require specialized fuels to make them go. Your body is no
different. In fact, your body is the greatest of all high-performance
machines

body

on

this earth, created

to

last up

to

100 years

of nature,

or more.

Your

complex, sophis
engineering masterpiece
intelligent than anything ever crafted by man.
Your body is adaptable to a variety of climates, environments, and
life situations, capable of moving in an infinite number of ways, and
of enduring and surviving conditions of extreme hardship and dep
is

an

more

ticated, durable, and

rivation.
As you

already know,

your

body

skill, precision, and expertise that it

has been
comes

designed with
equipped with its

such
own

self-contained, selfhealing
extraordinary
monitoring, and highly intelligent, and is capable of supervising and
initiating mechanisms of repair, restoration, and recovery from a
huge assortment of illnesses, injuries, and insults. To accomplish
these tasks, your healing system mobilizes specialized cells and stim
ulates powerful biochemical reactions that can rapidly mend
damaged tissues when you are ill or injured. It also maintains a bal
system. This

highly ordered natural state 0f health when you are not
injured. No other machine on this earth can boast of such a

anced and
sick

or

system is

114

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

system. And

with any other high-performance machine, your
healing system performs best when it receives special, high-perform
ance fuel. The fuel your healing system requires is wholesome,

just

as

nutritious food.

A Wholesome Diet for

a

Strong Healing System

keep your healing system strong is to eat a balanced,
wholesome, simple, natural diet. Such a diet consists of a wellThe best way

briefly the essential nutri
ents
we
earlierâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;protein, carbohydrates, fats and
oils, vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and phytochemicalsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and
how they affect your healing system. Doing so will give you a greater
understanding of the rationale behind the practical ways to fuel your
healing system.
we

that

go

on,

it is

important to

mentioned

discuss

116

Your

Protein and Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Healing System

provides the structural elements for growth and repair of
your bodily tissues, and it is one of the most important nutrients
for your healing system. Protein is also the primary nutrient build
ing block for your muscles which, at 40 percent of normal body
weight, are the largest and most dynamic, energy-dependent struc
tures in your body. In addition to its predominance in muscle tissue,
protein is found in nearly all cells and tissues of your body, includ
ing your blood.
Adequate dietary protein intake is required for growth in children;
if it is not taken in required amounts, it can result in muscle-wasting
disorders in children. But because the daily requirement for protein is
only about an ounce a day, a lack of protein today in Western coun
tries is rare. In spite of this, unfortunately, a lingering fear of not
getting enough protein drives much of the unhealthy dietary prac
tices currently in vogue in Western countries. This fear results in
overeating, which can lead to obesity and can be very harmful to
your healing system.
Many people in Western countries have come to depend on
and animal products as convenient sources of protein.
meats
Unfortunately, these foods contain highly saturated animal fats with
no
fiber, which creates an unnecessary burden on the healing
Protein

Learning to incorporate protein from non-meat sources in
daily diet is a much healthier and safer approach for your heal

system.
your

ing

system.

Carbohydrates

and Your

Healing System

Carbohydrates are derived from plants. Carbohydrates constitute
the major fuel source for your healing system. The old, common
name for carbohydrates was starch, which we sometimes attribute to
the heavier, denser carbohydrates, such as potatoes and certain grain
flours that make bread. Starch was erroneously thought to contain
“empty calories,” but today we know differently. Because carbohy
drates provide the greatest overall return of energy of all foods,
marathon runners and triathietes typically “carbohydrate load”
before a major race by eating lots of pasta and breads. They know
from experience that this is the best long term, high-performance
fuel for their dynamic bodies.

Fueling

Your

Grains such
tion

117

Healing System

as

to

rice, wheat,

are

potatoes,
these have served

barley,

oats, corn,

and millet, in addi

largest staple food crops in the world, and
traditional sources of carbohydrate nutrient

the

as

energy for the majority of the world’s population for many years.
These foods, which contain “complex” carbohydrates, are the longest

lasting, slowest burning, and most efficient of all fuel sources for
your healing system. Additionally, they usually contain lots of fiber,
and so are extremely beneficial to the health of your colon and heart.
Foods with complex carbohydrates also are valuable sources of
essential vitamins, minerals, and
such

as

phytochemicals.

To

trace

elements, and other nutrients

strengthen

and

forti&

your

healing

system and keep it running smoothly and efficiently, your diet
should consist of about 60 percent complex carbohydrates.

Fats and Oils and Your

Healing System

performance of your healing
system. Specifically, they promote healthy skin and nails, and they
contribute to the structural integrity of cell membranes in your
body, which aids your healing system in preventing infection. Fats
and oils also help to protect and coat nerve sheaths, which improves
the health of your body’s communications. As you know, your heal
ing system depends on an efficient and accurate communications
system. Fats and oils also pad and cushion internal organs in your
body, protecting them from injury while they insulate and keep your
body warm. Because fats are lighter than water and are high-energy
nutrients, they are also a convenient way to store fuel that your heal
ing system can use when food intake is inadequate or scarce.
For these reasons, a small amount of fats and oils in your daily
diet is necessary for your health. Additionally, some fat-soluble vita
mins and other nutrients can be absorbed only with fats and oils.
For example, omega-3 fatty acids, found in flaxseed oil and certain
fish oils, help the healing system with blood clotting and can be
absorbed only with fats and oils.
Fats and oils

There

are,

no

essential for the

doubt, other beneficial

nutrients in certain fats and

yet been discovered. But because fats and oils repre
the densest and most concentrated forms of food energy, their

oils that have
sent

are

not

over-consumption
lems,

including

can

contribute

to

obesity

and other health

prob

heart disease, the number-one killer in the Western

118

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Fat intake should be restricted

hemisphere.

to

10 percent

to

25 per

level and

of your total

daily calories, depending on your activity
For example, Dr. Ornish, at the University of
California in San Francisco, found that a 10-percent daily fat intake
works best to aid your healing system in reversing heart disease.
cent

current

health

status.

important type of structural fat
and integrity of your healing system and,

Cholesterol is
the health

an

your cell membranes. In addition

to

that supports
in particular,

the cholesterol it obtains from

own cholesterol from other
your body
fats and oils. A diet that exceeds your body’s basic daily caloric
requirements, however, will create more cholesterol in your body

your

diet,

can

manufacture its

than is needed, and, if this

occurs,

the

excess

cholesterol

can

form

Reducing total
clog
fat intake, or restricting total calories, while increasing daily activity
levels can help lower cholesterol levels and aid your healing system
to dissolve blockages, open up clogged arteries, and improve blood
blockages

flow

to

arteries and lead

that

to

heart disease.

your heart.

Vitamins and Your

Healing System

naturally occurring compounds that are essential to the
healthy functioning of your healing system. They work with your
body’s various enzyme systems and are critical to the performance of
important, life-sustaining processes involved in the growth, repair,
and regeneration of healthy as well as damaged tissues. Although
vitamins are usually required in much smaller quantities than other
Vitamins

are

proteins, fats and oils, and carbo
that doesn’t include them at all can impair the

basic nutritional elements, such

hydrates, a
functioning
Vitamin

diet

of your

as

system and result in illness.
often change over time, they vary

healing

requirements

for males and females, and

slightly

they
during pregnancy and lac
tation. Athletic training and recovery from illness and injuries may
increase the body’s requirements for one or more vitamins. Because
the

increase

body’s biochemical pathways and metabolic processes are com
plex, subtle, and still remain largely unexplored, it is certain that
more vitamins than we currently know about will be discovered in
the future and recognized as essential to our healing systems.
The best way to ensure adequate vitamin intake for your heal
ing system is to eat a well-rounded, wholesome diet with plenty of

Fueling

whole

119

Healing System

Your

vegetables, and a certain limited
amount of fats and oils (again, specific vitamins require fat for
absorption). When a problem occurs in a specific area of your body,
you may need to supplement normal dietary sources with a specific
vitamin, or concentrate on eating foods that contain higher quanti
ties of a specific vitamin, to support the work of your healing system
in that

grains,

nuts,

seeds, fruits,

area.

The list that follows describes the various vitamins that
health of your
vitamins

are

This list is

healing system.

a

guide

and is

currently being researched, and many

covered. The recommended

estimates, based

on

the

dietary

findings

allowances

are

not

essential

all-inclusive;

listed

(RDAs)

14 years of age and older.

to

are

new

be dis

per-day

of the Food and Nutrition Board, National

of Sciences, National Research Council. The RDAs

Academy

still

more are

the

to

They

slightly

vary

requirements changing during pregnancy

are

for

people

for males and females, with

and lactation, athletic

training, and

recovery from illness and injuries.

P~

healing system in protecting the health of your eyes;
it also promotes healthy skin growth. A lack of vitamin A can cause poor
night vision and blindness, as well as skin problems. Recent research sug
Vitamin A aids your

gests that vitamin A also helps prevent certain
vitamin A

fruits and

yellow
rots.

(mcg)

Vitamin
your

vegetables

The recommended

grams
~

foods that contain beta carotene,

are

B; (thiamin)

mended

dietary

including

most

mango, papaya,

sources

of

orange and

squash, yams, and

car

allowance of vitamin A is 800 micro

aids your

healing system

system. A lack of vitamin

disorders of the
include whole

as

Good

1,000 micrograms (mcg).

to

nervous

such

cancers.

nervous

B1

in

maintaining the health of

can cause

system and brain. Good

grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits,

dietary

allowance of vitamin

B1

is 1.1

beriberi and other

sources

of vitamin

and milk The

milligrams (mg)

to

B1

recom

1.5 mil

ligrams (mg).
~

Vitamin

B2 (riboflavin) supports

health of your skin and

nervous

your

healing system by protecting

system. A lack of vitamin

B2

the

has been

120

Your

linked

ed
O

include

B2

vitamin

dietary

Vitamin

o

and

grains,

dietary

allowance is

1.3mg

15mg

vegetables,

maintaining

and

B3,

or

of vitamin

sources

B3

The recommended

legumes.

19mg.

to

B5 (pantothenic acid) participates

processes that support your

role in

health. A lack of vitamin

serious disease. Good

a

nuts, most

1.7mg.

to

healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

gastrointestinal

pellagra,

include

Vitamin

is

supports your

nerves,

can cause

B2

of

sources

The recommend

vegetables, cereals, and grains.

most

B3 (niacin)

Good

neurological problems.

allowance of vitamin

healthy skin,
niacin,

and

dermatological

to

Extraordinary Healing System

healing

in

a

variety of physiological

system. These include energy metab

olism, blood-sugar regulation, and production of antibodies, cholesterol,
â&#x20AC;˘

hemoglobin, and
to

O

Vitamin

B6 (pyridoxine)
nervous

has been linked
Good

sources

vegetables.
Vitamin

is used

Good

by your healing system

of vitamin

B6

include whole

The recommended

B12 (cyanocobalamine)

sources

4mg

causes

products.

Because vitamin

this vitamin for up

Folic acid works in

systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

role in

anemia and

dietary

seen

during

to

one

of the

dark green

vitamin
nerves

8Omcg

healing system

lack of biotin has been

potent

tremendous

B12

to

support your

healing

and red blood cells. A lack of

pregnancy and alcoholism,

vegetables,
to

most

a

five years, the recommended

system disorders. Good

allowance is I

Biotin aids your

2 is

only 2mcg.

maintaining healthy

nervous

grains, cereals,

at

conjunction with

folic acid, sometimes

production

the

of red blood

dairy products, most animal products, and

capacity

dietary

supporting

mankind, and because your liver has

allowance is very small,

2mg.

to

anemia and nervous-system disorders.

to

store

in

B6

stones.

nuts, and most

1.6mg

healing system

system, and in the

substances known
to

protect the health

grains, cereals,

allowance is

aids your

nervous

B12

dietary

include milk and

fermented soy

to

nervous-system disorders, anemia, and bladder

cells. A lack of vitamin

0

allowance is

system, blood, and urinary system. A lack of vitamin

to

health of your central

o

dietary

7mg.

of your

o

hormones. The recommended

sources

can

lead

to

of folic acid include

and fruits. The recommended

200mcg.
in

implicated

maintaining healthy

skin and

in skin and nervous-system

and may affect cholesterol metabolism. Good

sources are

nerves.

A

problems

soybeans

and

Fueling

Your

121

Healing System

grains. The recommended dietary allowance of
I

(ascorbic acid)

role in wound
and

aids your

healing system by playing

best natural

by fragile

blood vessels and

of vitamin C is

source

vegetables, including

most

can cause

dietary

Vitamin 0 aids your

healing

tribute

to

source

of vitamin D.

osteoporosis

sunlight

and

is

added

now

Vitamin E

key

role

are

allowance is

system

good

by playing

key

a

skin

helps keep

Good

8mg

spinach, cabbage,

sources

to

is the best

sunlight

substances in the skin absorb

healthy

and strong. When taken

internally,

and

of vitamin E include the oil of many seeds and
wheat

grains. The recommended dietary

10mg.
healing system

as an

essential component of your

that live within your

dietary

and other

allowance is

can see

65mcg

from these

sources

naturally produced by

own

a

intestines, where the

of vitamin K include green tea,

leafy green vegetables.
8omcg.

The recommended

to

descriptions

how important vitamins

optimum functioning of your healing system.
daily

can con

antioxidant, important in the prevention of heart disease

vitamin is absorbed. Good

one.

rickets and

and other disorders. Natural

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blood-clotting
specific strain of bacteria

each

role in calcium metab

causes

mechanisms. Vitamin K is

your

of vitamin C.

milk, cheese, and butter. The recommended dietary

Vitamin K supports your

You

sources

60mg.

Naturally occurring

vegetable oils,

allowance is

dietary

The

healing.

converted into the active form of vitamin D. Vitamin D

to

as an

cancer.

nuts,

disease

(d-alpha-tocopherol) supports your healing system by playing a
in wound healing. When applied topically, vitamin E aids in scar

it also acts

and

a

5mcg.

formation and

â&#x20AC;˘

important

scurvy,

wound

impaired

red chili peppers,are also

The recommended

allowance is

K

an

to

fruits, including citrus. Certain

olism and bone formation~ A lack of vitamin D

K

3Omcg

healing, collagen formation, immune defense, inflammation,

prevention. Vitamin C deficiency

cancer

characterized

K

is

O0mcg.

Vitamin C

K

biotin

diet, and that you get

at

Be

sure

least the minimum

are to

the

you include vitamins in

daily requirements

for

122

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Minerals,Trace Elements, and Your Healing System

powerful essential nutri
ents that aid and support your healing system. They are required for
growth, repair, and regeneration of tissues, to keep your body
healthy and free from disease. Minerals are derived directly from the
earthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core, and they have unique properties. They are integral to
In addition

the

to

vitamins, minerals

and function of

structure

are

also

important

enzymes,

hormones, and

they transport molecules, such as hemoglobin, within the body. As
noted earlier, almost every mineral element that exists in the core of
the earth has been found

exist in minute

generally
trace amounts by your body.
Trace elements are chemically

body.
in

to

considered

Even arsenic,

related

quantities in
be a poison,
to

the human
is

required

minerals and

usually

nutritional category~ The difference between
elements and minerals is that minerals are required in slightly

classified in the
trace

to

same

greater amounts than trace elements, and their functions are a little
better understood. We know that trace elements are required for
nutrition and

good
each

health, but

we

is needed and

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know

what each

exactly

how much of

does. We do know,

exactly
deficiency of trace elements in your body results in
a failure to thrive, increased susceptibility to disease, and even death.
So although they are required in very small amounts, trace elements
are absolutely critical to the optimum functioning of your healing
one

Potassium, along with sodium, also helps your healing system by facilitat

ing

water movement

in and out of your

in and out of your

body.

Good

sources

cells, and

by directing

of potassium

water

are most

flow

fruits and

124

Your

vegetables, including
for
LI

potassium

Sodium is

an

movement

for certain
a

a

as

problem

key

role in

Sulfur

is

water across

if you have

for

your

body.

Good

The RDA has

not

sources

Keep

body

amounts.

integrity

heart failure,
not

hypertension,

aid and support the

plant

and animal

and your

trace

elements,

healing system,

but

are

they

to

the health

required

in minute

essential

are

of

trace

cadmium, lithium, silver, and

elements include rich and varied

on

this earth. Even

though they

are

most

critical

to

plant

and

gold.

life grown in

fertile

source

of all

the health of your

healing system, in general, trace elements are present
determining exactly how much you

in such small amounts that

day

in

proteins.

molybdenum, selenium, silicon, tellurium, vanadium, zinc,

sources

and

can

and kid

proteins and other compounds

natural, volcanic-derived, organic soil, which is the

body

retention, which

Elements

quite possibly many others, including

minerals

most com

yet been established.

healing system

of

the

These minerals include: arsenic, bromine, boron, chromium, cobalt,

manganese,

Good

regulating

in mind that too much sodium

of sulfur include both

important minerals, called

of your

your

healing

yet been established.

Important Key Trace
Other

that aids your

to excess water

congestive

helping

formation and structural

body

cell membranes and tissues. The

has been linked

important

and tubers. The RDA

conduction while

nerve

ney disorders. The RDA for sodium has
LI

as roots

electrical ion in your

of sodium is table salt.

people

well

been established.

important

of

mon source

green leaves

not

by playing

system

be

has

Extraordinary Healing System

in the

body

need every

is difficult.

Vitamin and Mineral

Supplements

Research shows that you are better off getting your vitamins, miner
als, and trace elements in their most natural form, the foods that you
eat,

rather than from

als, and

trace

supplements.

elements

are

This is because vitamins, miner

better absorbed when

other natural nutritional elements

digested

they

are

bound

and assimilated

by

to

your

body. For instance, iron is better absorbed in your intestines in the
presence of vitamin C. For this reason, I generally donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t recommend

Fueling

Your

125

Healing System

supplementation unless you are suffering from
a specific
deficiency or a health condition that could be
significantly improved through vitamin therapy, or your diet is
incomplete in one way or another.
If you choose to supplement your diet, do so with discretion
and care. Supplemental vitamins and minerals are concentrated and
not in their natural state, and if you take them in excess, they can
cause serious health problems. Vitamins and other supplements
should never replace a good, wholesome diet. I frequently encounter
people who do not focus enough time and thought on their diets
but instead rely on their supplemental vitamins and minerals to
make up for any deficit in their diets. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When it comes to selecting
healthy, nourishing foods for your healing system, it is of paramount
importance that you take time to listen to and work with your body.
When you are just starting out, it is also a good idea to work with
your doctor and preferably a reliable nutritionist to help you deter
vitamin

or

mineral

vitamin

mine the best nutritional program for your individual health needs.

Phytochemicals:
Phytochemicals

Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Medicines

are

naturally occurring chemicals

both nutritional and

in

plants

that have

effects, and they support

health-enhancing
healing system in many ways. Phytochemicals facilitate the
processes of growth, repair, and tissue regeneration. They also help
prevent certain chronic, degenerative diseases, including cancer and
heart disease. Among the better-known phytochemicals are the
carotenoids, including beta carotene, a parent compound to vitamin
A, found in yellow- and orange-colored fruits and vegetables.
your

Carotenoids prevent heart disease and are beneficial in the preven
tion of certain cancers. Lycopenes, found in tomatoes, are also helpful

prevention of certain cancers, heart disease, and other chronic
Many health experts feel that Italians have such low rates
of heart disease and cancer because of their steady diet of tomatoes,

in the

conditions.

which contain

lycopenes.
phytochemicals play a significant role in supporting your
healing system and can help overcome a wide variety of diseases,
particularly the prevention and healing of certain cancers, heart dis
ease, and even macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness
in the elderly. Because these important phytochemicals come from a
Other

126

Your

wide

variety

of plant

colorful fruits and

getting enough

sources,

vegetables

it is
to

Extraordinary Healing System

important
make

sure

to eat a

your.

wide

healing

variety

of

system is

of these natural chemicals.

Probiotics and Your

Healing System

Pro biotics represent another class of

compounds important

in the

nutrition and health of your healing system. Probiotics are produced
by certain strains of bacteria that naturally live in your intestinal tract,

they also occur in nature. These strains of bacteria can aid your
healing system in combating illness, restoring health, and maintaining
proper biochemical balance in your body. More than 500 different
strains of bacteria have been discovered to live in your intestines, help
ing to break down ingested foods while producing valuable metabolic
byproducts that are then absorbed and carried to the various cells and
tissues in your body. One of these products is vitamin K, which your
healing system utilizes as an essential ingredient in blood clotting.
Scientists have discovered, for example, that ingesting lacto
bacillus bacteria, commonly called acidophilus, which occurs
naturally in yogurt and is now available in supplemented commer
cial milk preparations and other products, reduces childhood
and

diarrhea, decreases the likelihood of intestinal side-effects while
people are taking antibiotics, and prevents yeast infections in
women. Probiotics often can successfully combat infections, espe

cially those of the intestinal tract, and possibly those of the
respiratory system. They may also reduce the required dosages and
possible toxicity of childhood immunizations. Probiotics appear
naturally in many traditionally fermented foods, such as vinegar,
wine, cheese, yogurt, tempeh, and soy sauce.

Tips for
Healing System

Twelve Essential

Fueling Your

fortify your healing system with the right
fuel, you need to follow a few simple nutritional guidelines. Keep in
mind, however, that we all are unique individuals with different
nutritional needs that can change and evolve as we grow, age, or
modify our activities or environment. It is important, therefore, that

To

help strengthen

and

Fueling

Your

cling blindly

not

you

127

Healing System

to

any

one

set

of

stringent

nutritional

or

formulas that may not be appropriate for you. As a general
listen
to your body, trust in its inherent wisdom and natural
rule,

dietary
state

of health, and

respond intelligently

to

its

ever-changing

nutri

tional needs and demands.

Eat

Tip #1:

Diet Rich in

Simple

Fruits,Vegetables,
Grains, Seeds, Nuts, Beans, and Legumes

Whole

a

For the sake of

high_performance nutrition, most experts are now
recommending a simple diet predominantly based on foods
obtained from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts,
and seeds. These foods

are

more

concentration of vitamins,

higher

balanced and contain

minerals,

trace

a

much

elements, and

other valuable nutrients than flesh- and meat-based foods. Plantbased foods also contain
more

more

complex carbohydrates,

unsaturated fats and oils, and, contrary to popular opinion,
are also excellent sources of protein. Numerous studies have

they
clearly

established

a

link between

etables and greater health and
these are the best fuels for your
an

beneficial

excellent

source

greater intake of fruits and veg
longevity. Under most conditions,
a

healing system. These foods are also
of fiber, which is essential for optimal intestinal

health. Fiber has been shown

to prevent colon cancer as well as heart
disease. We also obtain valuable fats and oils from these foods.

Plant-based foods contain less saturated fat, and
fewer toxins and less

they

also contain

residues than other foods. Plant-

pesticide
proteins, which are plentiful in beans, legumes, nuts, seeds,
and grains, are generally more beneficial than protein from meats
derived

and animal flesh. When you consume meats or animal products, try
to eat less, and try to eat these foods only as condiments or flavor

ings,
eat

as

the Chinese and

them

duringspecial

form of celebration,

do. And if you feel so inclined,
occasions, such as holidays or birthdays, as

Japanese
the

early hunting-gathering societies did.
The trend toward a healthier dietâ&#x20AC;˘ consisting of simpler, more
wholesome, natural foods and fewer flesh foods is supported by the
health data from the countries with the largest populations in the
world, including China and India, in addition to other countries
where people derive the majority of their nutritional requirements
from fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes. In these countries, there
a

as

128

Your

is far less heart

Extraordinary Healing System

disease, hypertension and stroke,

arthritis, and other chronic

degenerative

cancer,

diseases—the so-called

“diseases of civilization”—than in countries that derive

nutritional

Meat and flesh-based foods

which
studies

helps
now

advantages.
as

maintain the

are

growth

convenient

sources

reveal that these diets have greater

can

of their

products.
protein,

of

and health of muscles, but

disadvantages

Most meat-based diets contain harmful

saturated fats that

more

from flesh foods and animal

requirements

diabetes,

most

than

substances, such

clog the arteries in your heart and brain,
including heavy metals and pesticide

and environmental toxins,

residues, which

are

stored and concentrated in animal tissues. ‘When

we compare them to other simple, wholesome, natural foods, meats
also lack sufficient fiber and other essential nutrients, such as vita

mins, minerals, and

trace

elements.

Although many people erroneously assume that plant-based
are lacking in protein, their fear of not getting enough protein
from plant sources is not scientifically valid. Studies have proven
diets

that it is easy to get abundant protein from a diet that combines
grains and legumes with other fruits and vegetables. Other studies
have shown that traditional cultures around the world that have
vived for centuries
little

to no

Many

on

these

simple,

evidence of heart disease and
excellent

meat

sur

wholesome, natural foods show

substitutes

cancer.

are

now

available that

are

derived from soy, legumes, and other vegetable-protein sources. In
the more progressive cities in America and Europe, many restaurants
now

offer these

products

and grocery stores.
The average daily

on

their

menus, as

protein requirement for

40 grams, which is a little more than an
question of adequate protein intake, daily

do

most

most

ounce.

supermarkets

adults is less than

‘Whenever there is

a

protein requirements can be
grains. An example
(legumes)
by combining
would be eating beans and tortillas, as we commonly do when we eat
Mexican food. An even simpler example would be a peanut-butter
sandwich on whole-wheat bread. Tofu is also an excellent complete pro
tein, and it can be prepared in many ways. Dairy products, including
milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt, are also excellent sources of protein.
Many excellent nutrition plans and cookbooks for healthy eating based
on a diet that incorporates more fruits and vegetables are available.
met

beans

or

seeds with

Your

Fueling

129

Healing System

Tip #2: Consume More Fluids, Including Soups,
Juices, Herbal Teas, and Water
healing system requires adequate fluid intake to function opti
mally. Because your body is 70 percent fluid, all metabolic processes
in your body occur predominantly in a liquid internal environment.
For this reason, it is important to drink lots of water throughout the
day. The more liquids you consume, the more effectively fluids can
circulate in your body, and the more rapidly your body can elimi
nate toxins. Fluids also aid in the healing of infections and many
other congestive and degenerative conditions. Many illnesses can be
traced to chronic dehydration resulting from a lack of fluid or water
intake. Fresh fruits and vegetables, many of which are more than 95

Your

water,

percent

and

excellent

sources

of fluid.

Consume More Fiber in Your Diet

Tip #3:
Fiber is

are

an

essential fuel additive for the health of your colon, heart,

healing

system.

eliminate unwanted

Adequate

your

ability

to

and

help prevent
doesn’t have fiber, and because

can

ensures

and toxins from your intestines, and it
degenerative diseases. Because meat

waste

cancer

fiber intake

most

Americans

eat more meat

than

any other food, they usually don’t get enough fiber in their diets.
This lack of fiber causes problems with elimination, which results in

the

steady buildup

extra

of toxic

burden and strain

for illness. The best
and other

grains,
legumes,

Tip #4:

nuts

waste

on

the

in the

healing

of fiber

body.

Waste

system and

buildup

puts an
the stage
fruits, whole

can set

predominantly
plant-derived vegetables, including
sources

are

beans and

and seeds.

Eat Food That Is

Prepared

Fresh

prepared fresh each day. Don’t eat food that is
stored in freezers for long periods of time, has been sitting on shelves
for a long time, or was prepared months to years in advance and then
prepackaged. This food often has lost its vitality and nourishment,
and it also may be harmful to your body. Also avoid refined foods,
including refined flours, which are devoid of fiber and often contain
Consume food that is

harmful additives and
to

eat

preservatives.

those made with

If you

whole-grain

eat

breads and pasta, try

flours. Eat less artificial and

130

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

refined sugars. Instead, when you
and natural sweeteners, such as

sweets, eat

crave

more

fresh fruits

and fruit-derived

honey

sweets,

and dried fruits. Processed, refined, and

packaged
healing system

including juices
foods lack the vitality, freshness, and fiber that your
requires to function optimally, and they may cause it
time by creating unhealthy conditions in your body.
Include Raw Foods in Your

Tip #5:
Eat

at

least

one

portion

bles and fruits. This

a

of

day

raw

Daily

to

over

Diet

foods, including fresh vegeta

food could be in the form of

raw

work

a

salad with

fresh sprouts, or fresh fruits and vegetables, such as carrot sticks or
fresh apple pieces. Raw fruits and vegetables are loaded with vita

elements, and they contain a
Make sure, however, that you chew

mins, minerals, and
and fluid

content.

well because

quately.
content,

while

they can

trace

be difficult

Raw fruits and
assure

with their

essential vitamins, minerals,

natural sugars for your

Eat

vegetables,

digest

not

high

raw

healing

Regular Meals,

fiber
foods

chewed ade

fluid and fiber

efficient circulation and elimination in the

they provide

Tip #6:

to

if they’re

high

trace

body,

elements, and

system.
at

Regular Times

body’s digestive system is set up to handle regular meals. Going
all day without eating, and then overeating for dinner, is a common
habit that can contribute to digestive problems, overburdening your
body and making your healing system sluggish. A steady flow of
nutrients works best for your healing system, not starving it all day
long and then overloading. Graze on healthy snacks if you get
hungry, or if your blood sugar gets low. However, make sure not to
spoil your appetite for your meals. Eat more toward the earlier part
of the day and less in the evenings.

Your

Tip #7:

Take the Time

to

Plan and CookYour Meals

Proper nutrition is essential for your health. Although preparing
healthy, wholesome food might take a little extra thought and time,
just remember that your healing system deserves and requires the best
fuel you can give it. Like anything that’s worthwhile, proper nutrition
takes planning and preparation. If you wait until you are hungry to
decide what you are going to eat, you will most likely grab the nearest

Your

Fueling

131

Healing System

food available, which could be fast food
the time

shop

to

for and cook

Create

Tip #8:

a

convenient

junk food. Take

wholesome foods.

Pleasant Ambiance When You Eat

food under

Eating your

healthy,

or

pleasant

circumstances, in

ronment,

enhances the smell and

digestion.

‘While

a

calm, quiet envi

of the food and

improves
eating, use pleasant settings, including quality plates,
silverware, and serving utensils. Light a candle or use soft lights at the
table. Avoid watching TV while you eat, or eating with the stereo or
taste

radio

blasting, which can interfere with proper digestion and the assim
ilation of vital nutrients. Avoid arguing or getting upset for any reason
while you eat. If you are upset, it is best to wait until you are calm to
eat because emotional upheaval can adversely affect body chemistry
and have

spirit

of

and your health. Cultivate a
for the food that you consume. Many cultures

before you swallow it. Proper chewing
which is why dental hygiene is also an

chewing
good teeth,

depends
important part of your
overall physical health and personal hygiene. Not chewing your food
slowly and thoroughly because you are eating when you are in a
hurry or upset can cause indigestion and rob your healing system of
on

necessary vital nutrients.

Tip #10:

Eat

a

Wide

Variety

of Foods

Do your best to satisfy your body’s nutritional requirements by eating
a wide variety of foods. This variety will ensure the opportunity for a

greater selection and utilization of nature’s essential nutrients. In the
past, populations that were confined to limited choices in their diets

often

came

down with

severe

nutritional deficiencies.

132

Because many vitamins,

tional substances
contribute

to

the

are

minerals,

trace

vegetables

as

least

at

elements, and other

nutri

pigments and dyes that
vegetables, many
wide a variety of fruits and

associated with natural

specific

colors of certain fruits and

nutritional experts recommend
diet

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

eating as
possible, including every color in the rainbow in your
weekly. For all practical and scientific purposes, this

clog your digestive, lymphatic,
circulatory systems, draining your body of healing energy. Such
foods have been linked to a number of diseases, including gout,
gall bladder disease, heart disease, diverticulitis, and many others,
including cancer.
Rich, heavy foods, which contain a lot of fat, oil, and protein,
represent the most difficult of all foods to digest, often taking at
least four or five hours, and sometimes even longer. The time and
energy required to break down and digest these foods will interfere
with the performance of your healing system. The process of diges
Rich, heavy foods taken in

excess can

and

tion

redirect blood flow and energy away from the work your
system is doing. If you are healing, and you are not under

can

healing

nourished,
rich and

it is

heavy

Tip #12:
Minimize

important

to

keep your diet light. Avoid or minimize

foods.

Minimize the Use of Alcohol and Stimulants
or

reduce alcohol intake. Consider

eliminating

it alto

special, festive occasions. Alcohol, which
a nervous-system depressant and also has negative effects on the
liver, can make your healing system sluggish and incompetent.
gether

or

saving

its

use

for

is

addition, minimize or eliminate the
including caffeine, which is commonly found
In

caffeinated sodas. Caffeine stimulates the
increase mental

agitation

and

cause

use

in

of stimulants,

coffee,

tea,

and

system and can
Stress constricts your

nervous

stress.

blood vessels and promotes the fight-or-flight response, which inter
feres with the performance of your healing system.

Fueling

Your

133

Healing System

Closing Thoughts on
Fueling Your Healing System
remember that your

body is a high-performance
extraordinary healing system that requires the
highest-performance fuels available from the purest sources. Repair
and restoration of damaged tissues require energy; and the energy
It is

important

machine, with

you
on

an

in the form of food will have

consume

your

to

healing

system and your overall

a

tremendous influence

state

of health and well

being.
Remember

to eat

foods that

and balanced, and that contain

are

wholesome and nutritious, fresh

plenty

of vitamins, minerals,

and fiber. These foods include

elements, fluids,
etables, whole grains,
Make

nuts,

trace

fruits and veg
seeds, soups, herbal teas, juices, and
most

you are getting adequate protein, carbohydrates,
in your diet. Eat natural foods that represent every
color in the rainbow at least once in a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get enough

water.

sure

fats, and oils

phytochemicals. Take time to prepare your meals thoughtfully,
eat regularly, avoid unhealthy snacking, and chew your food well. If
you are attempting to heal yourself from a chronic illness or condi
of flesh food in your diet, or eliminate it
Avoid rich and heavy foods unless you need to put on

tion, reduce the

altogether.
weight. Also
There

amount

be careful with alcohol and caffeine intake.

are

many excellent

resources

for nutrition. When it

comes

remember

fueling your healing system, respect your individuality,
keep an open mind about trying and learning new things, and
donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too rigid or fanatical about following a stringent dietary reg
imen that has worked for others but may not be right for you. Above
all, stay informed, and listen to your body as you focus on fulfilling
its ever-changing nutritional needs.
to
to

erful messages to your body that can, dramatically influence the
performance of your healing system. Through these mechanisms, a
communication feedback system sends precise, splitinformation
from your body back to your brain. Your mind
second
remains in intimate contact with your body’s ever-changing internal

sophisticated

by side with your healing system.
physician and author Dr. Andrew Weil,

environment while it works side
In the words of well-known

“Wherever

nerves are,

All mental

activities of the mind

activity,

can
or

travel.”

unconscious, has
enhance

a

on your healing system and can
or
performance. For example, when your mind is in a
positive state, immersed in thoughts of love and affection, caring
and compassion, enthusiasm, health, happiness, joy, and peace, ben
eficial chemicals known as neurotransmitters or neuropeptides that are
secreted by your brain can actually infuse your body with positive
energy, strengthening your healing system and improving your
health. Alternatively, when your mind is in a negative state, with
thoughts of pessimism, cynicism, jealousy, anger, hatred, fear,
revenge, self-criticism, blame, shame, guilt, and despair, you are

powerful

influence

whether conscious

interfere with its

136

Your

sending negative

Extraordinary Healing System

body via equally powerful
chemicals that can weaken your healing system and interfere with its
ability to do its job effectively. In the words of Robert Eliot, M.D.,
“The brain writes prescriptions for the body.”
messages

to

your

When you understand the power of your mind, and its enor
mous ability to work either for you or against
you, you will no

longer waste valuable
~

,,

~ci

rate,

time

or

~

I

maci

energy

•I

blaming outside forces,

I

includ

II

~

poiiute environment, or
other people for your illnesses, diseases, or lack of good health.
Outside forces can certainly play a role in disease processes, but, in
ing

the final

evii

genes,

microoes,

your health is based

analysis,

a

the

more on

personal

choices

you make for yourself, moment by moment, each day of your life,
and your ability to optimize the incredible power of your mind to
aid your healing system. You are the one who is ultimately respon

sible for your health, and

principle.

mind

own

capable

so

it is

can

serve

as

thoughts

that

impulses

your

most

qualified

and

travel

converted

through

Healing System

your brain and

through

are

body,

nerves

that

in much the

system, generating

nervous

electrical

into

the many

organs and tissues of your

These

impulses.

are

distributed

same

way

to

electrical

the various

electricity

as

moves

wires.

For

example,

movement,

impulses

to

a

when you

thought

stimulate

is first

arm.

The part of your

known

voluntarily brought

tribution and

or

as

the

by

nervous

environment. The autonomic

before the actual

your

movement

responsible
conscious

system, is

its

nervous

more

influence

system

movement

thinking.
as

the

wide-reaching

over

your

regulates

in your

for this type of

system because the

own

electrical

causes

direct the muscles in

results in

events

nervous

turn

system, however, known

nervous

in

arm,

in your mind that

system that is

voluntary

powerful

your

that will in

nerves

into action

autonomic

more

generated

nervous

Another part of your

system,

move

This sequence of

arm to contract.

movement is

want to

specific

your

nervous

or

partner.

Your mind works

is

force in this world, your

healing system’s

How Your Mind Affects Your

through

that you understand this

imperative

More than any other power

involuntary
in its dis

body’s

such critical

internal

biologi

The Power of Your Mind and Your

cal functions

digestive

your heart beat, your

as

and many others.

Within the autonomic

pathetic
in your

body;

this branch is

response. The

fight-or-flight

anxiety, panic,

changes
but

beneficial

they

also

to

stress, and it
can

or

a more

prolonged
body

your
The

producing

a

be initiated

can

be measured

by

quiet

calming

fight-or-flight

lengthy period,

on

threat

increase in heart

an

and blood flow to the

arms.

These

physiological

or

emergency,

healing system, which

it

gen

response is elicited repeat

prove harmful and

can

branch of the autonomic
nervous

effect

feeling

by thoughts of fear,

much work for your

creates too

sympathetic

movement

fight-or-flight

and relaxed internal environment within which

when the

over a

because it

of rest, relaxation,

and

legs

are

you “fight or flee” during a crisis

help

parasympathetic

balances the

activity

when you

occurs

and parasym

and

for the well-kn6wn

inhibit the activities of your

Additionally,

operate.

edly,

to

serve to

erally requires
to

response

muscles of locomotion in your
are

sympathetic

consumption, breathing, blood pressure,

rate, oxygen

large

responsible

and anger. It

the

are

branch increases

sympathetic

experiencing

or are

system

nervous

branches. The

worry,

your blood pressure, your

breathing,

perspiration, your vision, your elimination of waste

processes, your

products,

ened

137

Hea’ing System

your

system and the

body.

healing

nervous

damaging
system.

system

fight-or-flight

counter

response

This branch is associated with

repair, regeneration, and healing. Thoughts

by

states

that activate the

system include those of relaxation, peace, love,

parasympathetic
serenit>c harmony, and tranquility.
nervous

In these ways, your mind
movement

encing

plays

of certain muscles in your

and

modifying

the

Because your brain

minute, you

activity

can

have

can

see

Mind
You

can use

you

can use

process

what

an

a

as

role

body, but,far

approximately

enormous

not

just in

on

600

of

your
to

directing

importantly, in

more

processes

direct effect

the health of your

on

pivotal

physiological

environment in ways that have

can

a

800

your

the

influ

internal

healing system.
thoughts every

impact your thinking and

mental

body.

Healer, Mind

as

Killer

your mind for your body’s ultimate health and healing, or
it in a way that turns against you to the detriment of your

health. Your mind and your

thoughts

can

cause

real

physiological

138

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

effect demonstrates. If you learn to
use your mind to cooperate with your body’s healing system, it can be
your healing system’s most powerful ally, a loyal servant and friend. If
you do not use them properly, your mind and thoughts, through the
release of powerful neuropeptides, hormones, and electrical nerve stim
ulation, can weaken and damage your body’s health, interfere with
your healing system, and cause premature physical deterioration, dis
ease, and even your ultimate demise. If it is not properly trained and
used, your mind can become a definite liability, prove to be your worst
enemy, an4 even kill you. The following story about Jerrj~ one of my
patients, demonstrates the crucial principle that learning how to use
your mind for the benefit of your body’s health and well-being can lit
erally mean the difference between life and death.
changes

body,

in your

as

the placebo

Jerry was a tire salesman from a small town in Texas. He was in
early sixties and had already suffered from one near-fatal heart
attack just a year earlier. He was lucky to be alive. His cardiologist
had placed him on restricted activities until further notice. However,
Jerry could not resist the offer of spending the weekend with his
buddies in a small hunting cabin in the mountains of Colorado.
Even though he had decided to go on the trip without letting his
doctor know, he told himself he would take it easy and not disobey
his doctor’s orders. He would not push himself or do anything stren
uous that might injure his heart.
his

However, because of the increased altitude in the mountains
where

used

Jerry

was

to—something

returning
began to feel

was

the oxygen was a little thinner than he was
he had forgotten to take into account. As he

staying,

to

his cabin

the familiar

evening after an uphill stroll, he
chest pain and pressure that signaled
one

another heart attack

coming on.
At that moment, Jerry made a conscious decision to use the
power of his mind to avert a possible heart attack. He simply told
himself, “I refuse

absolutely
a

heart attack

away. He has

day.

to

have another heart attack!” His mind

committed

again
never

avoiding

the dreaded

experience

was

so

of having

that his symptoms subsided, and his pain went
had another problem with his heart since that

Of that

it wasn’t

to

day, Jerry told
going to happen

another heart attack!”

me,
to

just made up my mind that
again! I simply refused to have

“Doc,
me

I

The Power of Your Mind and Your

Stories like

Jerry’s

are

139

Healing System

not

uncommon,

that, when constructively applied,

your mind

and
can

they
be

a

demonstrate

powerful ally

of your body’s healing system. Your healing system is programmed
to listen to your mind, so it is important to be conscious of the

thoughts

The

and messages you may be

Merry-Go-Round

Every day, researchers

are

sending.

and the

Sorry-Go-Round

discovering more ways

that your mind and

connected and influence each other. The intimate relation

body
ship between your mind and your body affects your health in many
ways. For example, people who are happy, emotionally balanced,
and socially well-adjusted enjoy better health and are sick less often.
When you are in a good mood and feeling good about yourself, you
will most likely want to take better care of your body; eat whole
some, nourishing food; take time to exercise; get enough sleep and
rest; and participate in other life_promoting activities that will con
tribute to your body’s overall health. Alternatively, if you become
depressed, or if your spirits are low, you will not have the energy to
take very good care of yourself. You may not feel like exercising reg
ularly, which can weaken your cardiovascular system and possibly
cause you to gain weight as a result of inactivity. All this can put you
at risk for heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other dis
eases. Or you may not eat healthily or drink enough fluids, which
can lead to excessive weight loss and vitamin, mineral, and other
nutrient deficiencies, leaving you weak and dehydrated, vulnerable
to disease. You may not bathe as regularly as you should, which can
lead to skin infections, and the possibility of other infections, as
well. Depression can create stress and anxiety, which can have a fur
ther negative impact on your health. All of these factors have a
negative influence on your healing system.
In the same way that your body is powerfully influenced by your
mind, your mind is also influenced by your body. For example,
when you are feeling physically fit, exercising regularly, eating good
food, getting adequate sleep and rest, and feeling relaxed, your
mental faculties will be sharper and clearer, and your attitude and
outlook on life will be inspired and enthusiastic. Conversely, certain
are

140

physical

Your

ailments such

as

anemia,

deficiencies, and insomnia

Extraordinary Healing System

thyroid dysfunction,

known

nutritional

mental

are
cause
fatigue,
lethargy, anxiety and altered mood states. Hallucinations and
mental psychosis can occur with electrolyte imbalance caused by
extreme dehydration, heat stroke, or kidney dysfunction. That
chronic pain can lead to mental depression is also well-known. Even
a cold, cough, or flu can make you feel low and affect your attitude.
Additionally, when you feel bad physically, you can easily become
frightened and anxious. Under conditions of impaired physical
health, mental health is adversely affected, and it is not uncommon
for thoughts of impending doom, prolonged suffering, and even
death to accompany such illnesses, especially if the illnesses are more
severe or prolonged.
Whether you begin with poor physical health that creates poor
mental health, or poor mental health that creates poor physical
health, you can get caught in a harmful cycle without even realizing
what is happening, a cycle that can be difficult to break. With the
poor health of your body pulling your mind down, and your low
ered mood and depressed mental health adversely affecting your
body, you can tumble down, down, down in a continuing spiral of
increased suffering on both mental and physical levels, into worsen
ing physical and mental health.
This cycle is known as the Sorry-Go-Round. The Sorry-GoRound is a term I like to use to describe the downward spiraling cycle
that occurs when poor physical health affects your mental health,
which affects your physical health, which affects your mental health,
and so on. But this cycle also can first begin with your mental health
affecting your physical health. The point is not which came first—the
physical or mental problem. It is that they feed off each other and
create a harmful downward-spiraling cycle that is difficult to break.
Through the power of your mind, you can become aware of this
harmful cycle when it afflicts you, and, once you are aware of it, you
can
successfully break it by implementing positive, beneficial
changes on both physical and mental levels in a two-pronged
approach (both physical and mental) that will lead you to what I call
the “Merry-Go-Round.”
The Merry-Go-Round describes the opposite state, in which
your mind and body are cooperating with each other in a positive

to

The Power of Your Mind and Your

way for your

optimum

health.

141

Healing System

Contrary

the

Sorry-Go-Round, in
continued negative mental
to

spiraling effect of
degenerating physical health occurs, in the MerryGo-Round, an upward spiraling effect of positive mental and
enhanced physical health perpetuates itself. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When your body feels
healthy, your mind feels good. When your mind feels good, your
body is also likely to feel healthier. When you feel good physically,
this uplifts your mood and contributes to a positive mental state. A
positive mental state helps to inspire life-affirming, positive, opti
mistic thoughts that will have beneficial effects on your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
physiology~ This kind of positive interaction is what your healing

which

a

downward

attitudes and

system thrives on.
The Merry-Go-Round

strengthens and nourishes your healing
system so that it can perform at maximum capacity This is one of
the most obvious reasons you want to ride on the Merry-Go-Round,
or,

if you have fallen off,

take definite

measures

Round. A few

to

to

get back on as soon as you can. You can
that you ride on the Merry-Go-

ensure

suggested here to get
two-pronged approach that implements
strategies
~

are

you started.

Remember,

both mental and

a

physical

works best.

be

important strategy to help you get back on
Merry-Go-Round if your mental health and spirits are cur
rently low and slumping. If you or a loved one suffers from
depression, studies have shown that exercise can help overcome
this problem. This is just one example to demonstrate that the
improvement in physical health often results in the improve
Exercise

can

an

the

ment

of mental health.

*

Stress-management techniques, which you will be reading about
shortly, can help you avoid the knee-jerk tendency to become
fearful, anxious, and scatterbrained in the face of daily prob
lems, and they are another powerful way to stay on the
Merry-Go-Round.

*

Positively programming your mind for health
another important method to help you get on
Round. This
are

based

on

chapter
this

describes several

important principle.

and

healing is
Merry-Go
practical strategies that
the

142

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

The health of your healing system depends on your ability and
determination to get off the Sorry-Go-Round and get on the MerryGo-Round. In this

chapter, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll learn various ways to do this, and
to enhance and strengthen your healing system so it can do its job
effectively and efficiently.
Psychoneuroimmunology
Psychoneuroimmunology,

known

as

and Your

Healing System

PNI for short, is

important

an

new

field of

medical science that studies the interaction between your mind and your
immune system. New

standing

how your

system is linked

your

a

system works because,

healing

to

in this field have

findings

healing system

direct

as

bearing

health of your immune system
You may recall that your

decidedly different,

and

that

affected

they

both

are

to

function

at its

body. Your
depends on the

best.

system and your immune system

healing

also have certain similarities. One

they

by

under

in the defense of your

system collaborates with your immune system and

healing

on

you know, your immune

thoughts,

your

are

similarity

is

emotions, attitudes, and the

activities of your mind.

Rigorous
ogy is

helping

and innovative scientific

that exist within

myths
was

understand

us to
us.

about how

our

that what goes

with what goes

It also is

on

on

us to

lay

to rest

bodies function in relation
in the mind has

in the

psychoneuroimmunol

in

about the wonderful

more

helping

investigation

body, which

several

resources

key, erroneous

to our

minds. One

absolutely nothing

whatsoever

was

taught

to

to

erroneous

several

important

completely independent

discoveries

choneuroimmunolog~ these
There is

now

by

new

working

finally

is based

on

to

in the field of psy

been proven wrong.

that your mind talks

understanding

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

of the brain. But, thanks

outdated beliefs have

unequivocal proof

immune system. This

researchers

do

notion, it

further believed that the immune system, which manages the

defenses, functioned

myth

young doctors in med

ical schools for several hundred years. To support this
was

healing

the

directly

to

your

following findings:

o

Specialized receptor sites for neumtransmitters, which are chemicals pro
duced by the brain, are now known to exist on specific white blood cells.

o

Tiny

nerves

This

discovery provides

have been discovered that
concrete

are

connected

to

the

lymph

nodes.

evidence that the immune system and

The Power of Your Mind and Your

which contain white blood cells,

lymph nodes,
the
*

nervous

Powerful

by specific

system talks
emotional

are

directly

connected

to

system and the brain.
have

hormones

secreted

143

Healing System

to

been

discovered

white blood cells. This

the endocrine system and

that

are

means

produced

and

that the immune

directly participates

in one’s

experience.

psychoneuroimmunology lend further scientific evidence
Hippocrates and other ancient physicians and healers have been

These advances in

what

to

telling
can

us

for thousands of years: that

improve the body’s ability

to

a

positive

mental and emotional

state

heal itself.

Strategies for Using Your Mind
Strengthen Your Healing System

Practical
to

Your mind is your healing system’s
and so it is important to learn how

most
to

valuable and

powerful ally,

maximize your mind’s incred

following techniques and strategies can help
to strengthen your healing system.

ible power. The

you

focus and direct your mind

Positive Mental

Programming

dangerous, difficult, responsibility-laden
people are in their
jobs
hands, their sound physical and mental health is of the utmost
importance. As a consequence, both the psychological and physical
exams for pilots are among the most meticulous and closely scruti
nized of any occupation in the world. When pilots are trained, they
that includes programming
go through a form of mental training
their minds into a specific, success-oriented mode. Pilots must focus
their thought processes on creating strategic, action-oriented behav
iors that will result in a positive outcome and nothing else. Pilots do
not have the luxury of entertaining thoughts that will contribute to
a negative outcome during the flying mission. Airplanes move fast.
If pilots make mistakes, even small ones, in the blink of an eye those
mistakes can be fatal, not only for the pilots, but for the flight crew
Pilots have

one

of the

most

in the world. Because the lives of many

and passengers,

as

well.

144

Your

Nowhere is the

Extraordinary Healing System

of this mental

training for pilots
more apparent than during landing. Landing a plane is one of the
most challenging and difficult aspects of flying any aircraft. Upon
descent and before landing, pilots set their sights for the runway
while they are communicating with the control tower. Just as they
will line up their airplanes along a certain approach to the runway,
they have already focused their minds on a specific train of thoughts
that entertain only a preselected sequence of decisions and actions
that will

produce

importance

successful

landing. Some flexibility is required,
course,
thoughts during this period must be focused on
the positive outcome of a safe and successful landing. Pilots cannot
entertain any unproductive thoughts that could possibly result in a
negative outcome. If pilots were to entertain such foolish thoughts,
the sheer weight of their distractive powers would most likely result
in a crash. A kind of self-fulfilling prophecy would most likely
Entertaining negative thoughts would prevent the pilots from
focusing on the constructive thoughts that are necessary to execute
the precise skillful movements required for successful landings.
In the world of health and healing, as in flying, the key role that
your mind plays in determining a positive, successful outcome
cannot be overstated. When it comes to your health, you simply do
not have the luxury of entertaining negative thoughts or negative
outcomes. Just like a pilot, you need to set your sights on
positive
outcome, believe that outcome is possible for you, and then act on
that belief, refusing to allow any unhealthy thoughts of disease and
suffering to distract you from your goal. Your healing system needs
this positive thinking to function at its best and keep your body and
of

a

but all

ensue.

a

all its systems running smoothly. Without the nourishment and fuel
of positive thinking, your healing system will become â&#x20AC;&#x153;distractedâ&#x20AC;?

from its critical role in
it will

not

be able

to

maintaining your
function properly.

health and

well-being,

and

If you come down with a respiratory infection or
any other illness, and you want to get better, focus your mind on
being healthy again by implementing the following mental strategies:
For

example,

~

Set your

n

Mentally

sights firmly

on

the

goal

of

being healthy again.

repeat that you will get better, and continue
until the belief is firmly ingrained in your mind.

to

do

so

The Power of Your Mind and Your

*

145

Healing Syslem

mental checklist of things you can do to get better soon.
For instance, if you have a respiratory infection with a fever,

Make

a

your checklist may look

like this:

something

Call in sick for work.
Contact your doctor.
Get

of

plenty

rest.

Drink fluids.
Avoid rich,

Keep

foods.

fatty

warm.

Take medicines

needed.

as

sights on your goal of being healthy,
mentally repeating this goal as often as you can.
Continue

*

If you
mental

to

set

your

finger and are bleeding profusely, the same
programming would apply, only the checklist would

cut

your

differ somewhat:
Find

a

clean cloth,

pressure

to

cotton

ball,

or

bandage,

and

apply

direct

the wound.

Place your hand above your heart

to

reduce blood pressure and

bleeding.
has stabilized,

bleeding

Once

friends

to

If the wound needs

medical
If you

contact

inform them of your

family

members

or

injury.

professional attention,

seek immediate

care.

are seen

concerning

by

a

wound

and medical

health

care,

professional, follow his/her orders
cleansing and bathing of the wound,

follow-up.

Restrict activities

as

needed

to

assist the process of wound heal

ing.
Continue

to set

your

sights

on

the

the restoration of your health.

often

as

you

healing
Mentally

of your wound and
repeat this

goal

as

can.

Adapt your positive mental programming to fit the needs of
your particular situation and condition. Many people have used

146

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

mental

programming successfully to overcome even serious
health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, multiple sclerosis,
and HIV. The following story is a good example of the powerful
effects of positive mental programming.
positive

Janâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story
diagnosed with breast cancer, and even though she went
through the grueling treatments of a radical mastectomy, chemo
therapy, and radiation, she was given only six months to live.
Rather than giving up all hope and becoming another cancer
statistic, Jan decided to enlist the help of her mind to rid her body
of this dreaded condition. She had read about other people over
coming insurmountable odds to defeat their diseases, and she
thought that, if it was possible for them, she might be able to do it,
too. Because her life was on the line, she plunged headfirst into
researching how she could possibly turn her health around. She

Jan

was

committed herself
While

Jan

was

to

programming

deciding

her mind in

to concentrate on

positive way.
nutrition and natural
a

supplements that could build up her strength and resistance, she
also began reading books on how her thoughts and attitudes could
stimulate healing mechanisms deep within her body, even though at
that time the idea of a healing system was virtually unknown.
Practicing several mental techniques that helped her relax, slow
down, stop worrying, and develop a better sense of humor, Jan
began to focus more on a positive outcome. After several months,
she began to feel more energy, vitality, and stamina coming into her
body. With these obvious physical signs of improvement, her atti
tude improved, and she began to actually believe she might be able
to follow in the footsteps of others who had similarly overcome
spite of the mastectomy she had and the
weighing heavily against her.
Today, 30 years later, Jan is totally cancer free and radiates a
spirit of calm reassurance and optimism that is obvious to anyone
who meets her. She has long outlived the doctors who first pro
nounced her death sentence. Through her difficult journey, Jan has
cancer.

She did all this in

odds that

come to

were

healing power of her own mind. She
assisting other women with breast
not to give in to hopelessness and despair,

realize the tremendous

volunteers her time in

selflessly
cancer, encouraging

them

The Power of Your Mind and Your

147

Heahng System

the

body’s greatest ally in healing, the mind, to
strengthen and fortify their healing systems through the cultivation of
life-affirming, constructive thoughts and positive mental attitudes.
but, rather,

to

use

Infusing Your Healing System
Beliefs

are

powerful thoughts

with Positive Beliefs

that

we

hold

onto

and invest with

great energy as if
true. Your beliefs

they were true, even though they might not be
help to shape the way you think and view the
world, and often they are backed by the collective support of many
people, including family and friends. Your beliefs are also reinforced
and influenced by many factors, including your education, the
books you read, the media, your colleagues, peers, community, reli
gious preferences, gender, and age, and your own personal thoughts
and unique life experiences.
Beliefs can be passed down from one generation to the next.
They can extend far back in time, covering centuries, and even mil
lennia. Beliefs often gain strength over time. The more people who
share in a similar, common belief, the more powerful that belief
becomes. ‘When beliefs become heavily invested with a lot of time
and energy, letting go of them and changing them is difficult, even
when they are wrong. For example, in medieval Europe, before
Christopher Columbus’s historic voyage in 1492, the belief was that
the world

was

flat, and that if you sailed

would fall off the
this belief

lives

were

was

not true,

affected

Beliefs

edge

of the world, Of

by

too

course,

far

out

to

we now

sea,

you

know that

but for hundreds of years, many

peoples’

this limited view.

constructed of

powerful thoughts, and as such they
can play a major
determining your health. Beliefs can signifi
cantly influence the performance of your body’s healing system
through the powerful messages they send to every organ, tissue, and
cell in your body. If your beliefs are positive, healthy, and life sustain
ing, they can work to your advantage. For example, in a well-known
study that looked at Harvard University graduates over a 25-year
period, those who believed their health was good or excellent at the
beginning of the study had significantly fewer illnesses and diseases,
far better survival statistics, and reported enjoying much better health
at the end of the 25-year study period than those who reported their
health as only fair or poor.
are

role in

148

Your

The

will

following approaches

system with

positive

help

Extraordinary Healing System

you infuse your

healing

beliefs:

o

positive belief that supports your goals of improved
health. Examples might be “I believe I can be healed,” or “I am
becoming strong and healthy.”

yourself with positive, optimistic people
positive belief about your health.

oppose your

simistic, unsupportive

o

often

as

Read books, watch movies, and

who reinforce your
o

repeat it, first saying it out
it, and then mentally repeat

Write down your

positive

doctor, find

belief. If you have

one

who

can

be

a

pes

more

encouraging.

You may choose

as

many

positive

health beliefs

as

you desire.

Negative beliefs, which are based on fear and pessimistic projec
concerning your health, can actually interfere with the
performance of your body’s healing system and can result in harm
to your body. If you sustain such beliefs over a sufficient time
period, they can even become self-fulfilling prophecies. Again,
recalling Dr. Eliot’s famous words, “The brain writes prescriptions
for the body,” this is only common sense. For example, if you think
long and hard about getting cancer, you may be contributing to the
physiological processes that will create a toxic internal cellular envi
ronment that can actually cause cells to mutate and manifest in
cancer. If you think long and hard about getting a heart attack, your
thoughts and beliefs can create the internal chemistry within your
body that constricts the coronary arteries in your heart and shuts
tions

The Power of Your Mind and Your

down the blood
to an

149

Healing System

supply to your heart muscles,

which

can

contribute

actual heart attack.

Even
is still

though

relatively

scientific research in these

new,

a

large

ical literature confirm the

mind-body interactions
already in the med

number of studies

reality

of these destructive

mental

processes. The good news is that many new studies are now show
ing that you can transform and overcome these negative influences

by focusing more on positive, life-enhancing beliefs and inc贸rporat
ing an optimistic view of the world into your beliefs.
An example of the power of positive beliefs is evident in the
story of AIDS. When AIDS was first discovered, just the diagnosis
of being HIV positive was enough to kill a person. More than the
actual virulence of the virus, this result was due largely to the fear
and dread these individuals associated with the

mysterious

elements

people are better informed and
not so
only has HIV lost its diag
nostic shock value, but the long-term survival rates and quality of
life also have improved dramatically among people who are HIV
positive. For the most part, this change has come about not so much
through breakthroughs in miraculous medications, but rather
through people becoming empowered to fight back and reclaim
their health through a change in their beliefs about HIV. Basketball
superstar Magic Johnson is one such example, and there are many
of the virus and the disease. Now,

fearful about HIV and AIDS. Not

others.

Transforming Negative
Beliefs into Positive Beliefs

Entertaining

and

holding

onto

beliefs that will enhance your health

be easy, especially if you were raised in a family or environ
may
ment that taught and encouraged negative beliefs. However, you can
not

succeed

by following the strategies described in this chapter.
In fact, many people who have overcome serious, life-threaten
afflictions
did so by discovering that the roots of their physical
ing
suffering were anchored in the muck of unhealthy, negative beliefs
they had harbored about themselves and their bodies since child
hood. Some of the more commonly reported of these negative

150

Your

beliefs

are

“You do

these: “You

not

deserve

are a

to

your sins,” “You deserve
you

can

be
to

Extraordinary Healing System

bad

person,” “You do not deserve love,”
happy,” “You need to be punished for
suffer and have pain,” or “The only way

love is if you get ill.”
who have overcome serious illnesses,

receive attention

or

people
healing
physical aspects of their diseases meant expunging the dis
ease at its psychological roots. They needed to let go of the deeply
ingrained, negative beliefs that led to a lifetime pattern of unhealthy,
self-destructive thoughts and related behaviors such as smoking,
overeating, drinking, drug abuse, staying in abusive relationships,
having unsafe sex, and taking unnecessary risks that lead to acci
dents and injuries. These negative beliefs and behaviors are not
unlike those that would cause people to end their lives by putting a
bullet in their brains or jumping off of a bridge.
Of those who have successfully healed themselves, many have
been able to look back on their diseases as gifts that helped them
transform mentally, emotionally, and spiritually into more vibrant,
stronger, healthier individuals. The physical cures were merely side
benefits they enjoyed along the route of the deeper healing that
occurred. The following story is a dramatic example of the power of
the mind and how one person healed himself by transforming and
overcoming his negative beliefs.
For many

from the

Josh’s Story
In his

sophomore year of college, Josh was diagnosed with a rare,
malignant brain tumor. His type of tumor carried a poor prognosis.
Fewer than 12 people in the entire world had had this type of tumor,
and no one had lived longer than a year after the diagnosis was
made,
to

even

with the best

treatment

that conventional medicine had

offer.

initially devastated by the news, something
buy into his death sentence. He believed in
his heart that his body could heal itself. He did not say much to
others, but, secretly inside, Josh vowed to defy the statistics. As he
set about changing his diet and lifestyle, reducing his stress, and
taking the time to listen to his intuition, Josh took a leave of absence
from school to concentrate on his deeper healing. After just 4

Although Josh

was

in his mind refused

months,

a

CT brain

to

scan

showed that his

tumor

had indeed grown

The Power of Your Mmd and Your

a

little smaller. His doctors

whatever he

was

were

amazed and told him

After 9 months, the

doing.

less than one-third of its

recurred.

on

original

was

Joshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

to

keep doing

had shrunk

to

months, 6 months

tumor

was

no

longer

Three years later, the tumor still had not
elated, but he wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t surprised. Now a doctor

the CT

Josh

tumor

size. After 18

after he should have been dead,

detectable

151

HeaI~ng System

scan.

himself, Josh counsels his patients

on

their attitudes while he edu

cates them about their mind and the power of their beliefs to
improve the quality of their health. Josh is not against conventional

medical
when

a

treatment

patient

increase the odds of

to

is faced with

the transformation of

internal

healing

negative

living proof

He is

imperative.

a

successful

difficult

a

diagnosis,
positive, healthy ones is
optimistic beliefs can activate

beliefs into
that

mechanisms and

incurable diseases.

overcome

Because your body is programmed
mands, it is imperative to begin now

embrace

outcome

but he believes that

your mental

to

obey

to

program your mind to
Josh and many others

beliefs,

com

positive, life-affirming
Many methods and techniques are available to help you
do this, including self-improvement books and tapes, motivational
videos, inspirational TV programs, prayers, mantras, uplifting
quotes and sayings, genuinely helpful friends and supportive peer
groups, compassionate and wise counselors, and supportive doctors
as

have done.

and healers.

Four Basic Positive Beliefs
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whenever you find yourself falling prey to negative beliefs, gently
but firmly shift your focus to four core beliefs. (Note: You may want
to

positive beliefs, rather than what is suggested
beginning, however, keep it simple by using no more

substitute your

here. In the

than

four.)

own

You need

to

reinforce these four basic beliefs and drive

deep into your subconscious mind and body, like driving a
railroad spike solidly into the ground with a sledge hammer. Once
them

these beliefs

are

solidly embedded, they

will

attract

other

positive

your mind and, in turn, infuse your healing system with
the positive energy it needs to function at its best.

beliefs

to

Belief #1: I

am

lovable

Belief #2: I deserve

to

just

be

as

I

am.

happy, healthy,

and fulfilled in my life.

152

Your

Belief #3:

My body has

a

healing

Extraordinary Healing System

system, and it knows how

to

heal itself.
Belief #4:

My body

wants to

n

Begin repeating these beliefs
silently throughout the day.

c~i

Write the beliefs down

on

be

to

a

healthy.

yourself,

first

small card.

out

Keep

bathroom mirror, in your car, at your office,
where you’ll see them several times a day.
n

Record the beliefs

D

Memorize the
a

fearful,

on a

can

you

strengthen

on

in any

your

place

message machine.

so

mind strays from your

health,

or on a

them

or

that whenever you catch your mind in
pessimistic, or negative mode, or if your

beliefs,

doubting,

tape recorder

loud, and then

bring

goal

of

it back

and nourish your

improved physical

on a

and mental

constructive track that will

healing

system.

If you follow this strategy faithfully, you will see how vibrant
and alive your body will feel as it responds to your new mental com
mands. Through these positive, life-affirming beliefs, your healing
system will awaken, arise, and shift into
smoothly and efficiently for you.

Stimulate Your

Healing System

high

gear

to

perform

with Positive Self-Talk

probably have seen and heard homeless people in the streets of
our cities, talking out loud to themselves. Upon seeing them, the
first thought that probably pops into your head is that they are crazy!
The irony is that you and I also talk to ourselves, every day of
our lives. The only difference is that when we talk to ourselves, we
usually do so quietly, in the silent chambers of our own minds. Our
internal dialogues, unlike those of “crazy street people,” are gener
ally kept strictly personal and private. These private dialogues are
known collectively as self-talk. Examples of self-talk include the
times when you mentally pat yourself on the back and say, “Good
job! well done!” or when you criticize yourself and say, “You jerk!
You messed up again!”
Your self-talk can have a huge impact on the health of your body
and your healing system. Self-talk generates thoughts that create
You

The Power of Your Mind and Your

153

Healing System

impulses that alter and modif~r the physiological workings and
chemistry of your body. Negative self-talk, which focuses on
negative thoughts and what is wrong with your life, can be very
destructive; it can create both physical and mental problems.
Alternatively, positive self-talk, which is based on an optimistic
mental attitude that sees problems as challenges and fosters a more
nerve

internal

positive

outlook

on

life,

can create

and maintain

healing system and robust good health.
Positive self-talk, on the one hand,

championship fight for your life.
Negative self-talk, on the other hand, is usually based on the fol
lowing themes: anger, resentment, revenge, jealousy, hatred, guilt,
blame, shame, self-criticism, low self-esteem, pessimism, cynicism,
sarcasm, hopelessness, futility, fear, sadness, grief, sorrow, worry, ill
ness, and suffering. By sending unhealthy messages to your body,
negative self-talk interferes with the performance of your healing
system. Negative self-talk creates tension and a feeling of heaviness
in your body; when it becomes habitual or continuous, it tears down
your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health.
More dangerous than most external agents of disease, negative
self-talk can sabotage and weaken your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defenses from the
inside

as

it

creates

toxic chemical imbalances that

can

lead

to

degenerative diseases. Negative self-talk contributes to poor
personal hygiene, and unhealthy diets and lifestyles. Most impor
tantly, negative self-talk sends self-destructive messages to your body
that interfere with your healing system.
You are in control of your thoughts and the master of your own
internal dialogues. Therefore, you can stimulate your healing system
and improve the quality of your health and life by carefully censor
ing negative, unhealthy thoughts while reinforcing positive, healthy,
life-affirming thoughts.
Numerous techniques, strategies, and activities are available to
help you program your mind into the language of positive self-talk.
chronic,

154

Your

Here

are a

few of the

for many of my

more

well-known

Extraordinary Healing System

techniques

that have worked

patients:

o

Affirmations: These are positive, life-affirming statements that you
can verbally or mentally repeat continuously until they become
deeply ingrained in your subconscious. With continuous repeti
tion and practice, affirmations eventually become automatic and
easily accessible to you when you need them. An example of a
rather well-known affirmation is â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every day, in every way, I am
getting better and better!â&#x20AC;? Affirmations are not only life affirming
and health enhancing when practiced over time, but they can be
comforting and reassuring in the short run, as well.

o

Art and literature:

Being

around great works of

including

art,

of the
paintings, writings,
get you
rut of negative self-talk and make you realize that there is more
to life than pain, suffering, and sorrow. Participating in the arts
can help bring you one step further into the positive realm.
and

o

Audiotapes:

Books

authors

be

to

can

focus

o

can

help

out

tape and recordings from inspirational
powerful tools to help you reprogram your mind

more on

on

positive self-talk.

in tape form while you
at

sculpture,

home, until they

can

listen

to

affirmations

are driving in your car or while you
deeply ingrained in your psyche.

are

uplifting and inspiring affirmations or
prayers that are rhythmical and melodic in form. They are similar
to songs, but simpler and more focused in their purpose. Chants
for health and healing can help you shift out of unhealthy nega
tive self-talk into the beneficial realm of positive self-talk. There
are many wonderful uplifting and inspiring chants from nearly
every culture, including Native American, African, Aboriginal,
Chanting:

Chants

are

You

are

Sufi, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Jewish, and Buddhist.
o

Friends and family:

and trusted elders
also

Spending quality time with friends, family,
and wise people in whom you can confide
helpful to inspire positive self-talk. Being

be very
around people with whom you feel safe, in an environment
where you feel warmth, affection, and acceptance, and with
can

those you
you,

can

can

uplift

look up to and admire, knowing they care for
and inspire your self-talk to be more positive.

The Power of Your N1~r~d a~d Your

~

155

Heahng System

down all your thoughts and feelings
about the things in your life you are grateful for can be an
effective way to help you shift your focus from seeing a glass that

Gratitude journal:

is half empty

to

Writing

one

that is half full, and

to

reroute

your

thoughts
feelings away from what is not working in your life
to what is working. Many successful people, including Oprah
and

Winfrey, keep
~

a

gratitude journal.

Hobbies and entertainment: These

enjoyable

activities will

help

they will allow your mind to be absorbed
you forget
in constructive thought and positive self-talk. It is difficult to
about time;

talk

negatively

activity
~

yourself when
truly enjoy.

to

that you

you

are

engaged

in

a

creative

Hypnosis: Hypnosis is another tool that many people have suc
cessfully applied to aid their mental reprogramming of habitual,
negative self-talk into an internal dialogue that is much more
positive and helpful. Many people have found hypnosis to be
one of the safest and most effective methods available for quit
ting smoking. Contrary to popular fears and myths, hypnosis is
safe and does

allow another person to take over or control
your mind. Rather, most therapists teach self-hypnosis, a tech
nique that shows you how to tap into the hidden powers of your
own

subconscious mind

your
~

not

body

so

that your mind

and work with your

Mantras: We

can

liken

repeated continuously,

healing

mantras to

either

can

align

itself with

system.

prayers and chants that

silently or out

loud. Most

are

mantras

from the East Indian tradition, but you can adapt any
phrase or expression that has meaning for you from your own
native language. Effective mantras for healing should be short,
come

rhythmical,

and melodic,

tion of their

meaning, but, through repetition, their sounds can
life-enhancing vibratory energies in your brain

facilitate easy repetition. Some
mantras are known to be very powerful because they not only
help infuse your mind with positive energy through contempla
to

activate certain

and

nervous system. You can use mantras for specific occasions
and circumstances; specialized mantras that can be very effective

healing. An excellent resource for mantras
Ashley-Farrand.
by

also exist for health and
is

Healing Mantras

Thomas

156

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

Singing, listening to and playing music, and dancing—
especially when it accompanies chanting and singing uplifting
songs and sacred music—can help uplift your mind while they
improve your self-talk. Engaging in negative self-talk is difficult
when your mind is occupied in positive musical activities.

o

Music:

o

Nature:

Immersing yourself and your senses in the beauty and
mystery of nature can have a dramatically positive effect on your

self-talk.
o

Peale, in his classic book The Power

of
Thinking, describes the positive impact that prayer has
on our thoughts and minds, as well as on our health. In every
tradition of the world, prayer is universally recognized for its
ability to lift people out of the mundane quagmire of hopeless
ness and despair, futility and depression. In his two books,
Healing Words and Prayer is Good Medicine, Dr. Larry Dossey
Prayer:

Norman Vincent

Positive

cites

numerous

scientific studies that document the health-

enhancing benefits and effectiveness of prayer, even in the face
of devastating terminal illness and major life-threatening events.
By providing

a

“senior

partner”

or

“higher authority”

to

consult

with, prayer can serve as a vehicle to take the pressure off your
life, remove your fears and worries, manage your stress, and shift
your self-talk into

a more

positive

mode.

o

Reading: Reading uplifting, inspirational books, including auto
biographies of great people who struggled against adversity and
overcame major obstacles, can help you focus your self-talk
more on the positive aspects of your life. Self-improvement
books can also be of great help.

o

Sports and games: These can help you develop confidence in
your body’s ability to move and perform like an athlete. Even
people with serious handicaps such as amputations of both legs,
or people who are wheelchair bound, are now competing on an
international level

tion, and
often be
o

activity

to

demonstrate that disease, illness, limita

restrictions

overcome

with the

are more a state

help

Visualization and imagery: These

of mind and

can

of positive self-talk.
mental

techniques with sci
entifically proven benefits not only for health and healing, but
also in the high-performance, physically demanding world of
are

The Power of Your Mind and Your

157

Healing System

professional sports and international athletic competition. By
using the visual and imaginative powers of your mind, you can
help produce a significant positive shift in your internal dia
logues, stimulate your healing system, and promote measurable
improvement in your physical health.

The
ful

placebo effect

When

scientific

observed

patients,

the

new

placebo,

study

a

the

known

a

In

drug.

receiving

the

during

the

as

imagination.
than

your

body.

The

placebo

clinical trials for new,

experimental group, will

pill

that contains

new

nearly

drug, and

every

the

consistent with those

changes

on

that demonstrates

the other half, known

placebo,

study

pill

There is

expected
no

by acknowledging
in the body.

no

drug

at

effect is

potentially

receive

a new

all. Both groups

a

drugs.

drug,

half of

are

pill

are

drug being
not

explain

just

the

that the mind has the power

contains the

to

a

tested. These

figment

placebo

of the

effect other

make these

changes

happen

Emotions and Your

Healing System

packets of mental and physical energy that move through
and attempt to move out of your body, much like a river whose
water steadily moves toward its greater destiny of the ocean. The
Emotions

are

word emotion

comes

from the

Your emotions have

and

they play

an

a

integral

root

emote,

adrenal

glands,

During

emotional

as

which

means to move out.

profound impact on your physical health,
role in the functioning of your healing

system. Your emotions are connected
which includes your pineal, pituitary,

to

your endocrine system,

thyroid, parathyroid, and
as your pancreas and reproductive organs.
experiences, powerful hormones are released into
well

a

told what

percentage of those

large

new

real; they
to

useful

drug, will report physical changes

from the

way

unique

that contains

pill

a

a

the control group, will receive

of this type,

are

possible

as

how power

just

both groups believe their

without the

be measured and

can

principle

is launched to test the usefulness of

drug, while

which is

expect from the

new

a

influence your mind has

an

phenomenon

to

is

158

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

your bloodstream from these various organs, and these hormones

have

far-reaching effects on your body and your healing system.
For example, when you are in a highly excitable state, either feel
ing exuberant joy or intense fear, your adrenal glands release
epinephrine (adrenaline), which can constrict blood vessels, acceler
ate heart rate, increase blood pressure, and affect lung and kidney
function. Cortisol, which
also released

at

can

suppress your immune

these times. All of these functions

are

function,

critical

to

is

your

healing system. Insulin, which regulates sugar metabolism, is also
produced in response to certain emotions, especially when you are
feeling frightened, angry, or under stress. These are just a few of the
more commonly known hormones associated with your emotions,
but you can see what a profound effect they can have on your heal
ing system.
Being in touch with your feelings, understanding what they are
and what they mean, is important for the health of your healing
system. When you are in touch with how you feel, you usually feel
energized and alive. When you are out of touch with your emotions,
you tend to feel separated from life, isolated and lonely. Feelings of
loneliness and isolation

harmful

repercussions

Clear evidence

create

on

now

stress,

which, if sustained,

can

your healing system.
exists that suppressing emotions

have

can

be

damaging to your health and your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system. Repressing
emotions goes against the natural laws of the universe that require
the natural energy of emotions to move out of your body
conscious expression. Numerous studies have shown that

to

seek

people

who

continuously suppress their emotions are more likely to fall
prey to serious illnesses, including heart disease, hypertension, dia
betes, cancer, autoimmune diseases, and other chronic conditions.
Other studies have shown that

people who are able to access their
feelings and express themselves enjoy better health and greater
longevity. Rather than suppressing your feelings and emotions, most
medical experts are now recommending that, to prevent illness, it is
important to get in touch with your feelings, whatever they are, and
then learn to express them in healthy ways.
Healthy feelings create sensations of comfort and ease in your
body. Some healthy feelings are joy, happiness, peace, contentment,
serenity, satisfaction, and love. Because they release powerful hor

The Power of Your Mind and Your

these

mones,

feelings

159

Healing System

extremely beneficial to the health of your
they can keep your healing system
many years. Of course, the most powerful

are

internal environment, and

body’s

vibrant and strong for
healthy feeling of allis love.

feelings are located in our bodies, there are really no
negative feelings or emotions, though this probably sounds like a
contradiction. Feelings just are, and they cannot be judged on any
level by anyone. Even anger, pain, and sadness, generally considered
to be “negative” emotions, can be appropriate and beneficial, espe
cially when we acknowledge and release them from our bodies in a
timely and sensible manner. The problem occurs when we do not
Because

release these emotions, but rather,
onto

and contain

we

hold

or

when the

occurs

roots

of these

and then released from your

exposed

Getting

Rid of Emotional

Unhealthy
up and

discussed before,

suppress them. Under these circumstances, sup
of so-called negative emotions can be harmful. Healing

pression
often

as we

big mess.

emotions

are

Baggage

released from your body can pile
Like lugging around too much baggage, or

emotions that

cause a

unhealthy
body.

are not

having
garbage that begins to smell and fester,
unhealthy emotions that are not released from your body can create
toxic chemistry in your body’s internal environment that interferes
with your healing system’s performance. Releasing your emotional
baggage by learning to let go of stored up negative feelings, such as
old resentment and anger, will help to lighten the burden that may
be dragging down your body and making it sick.
Anger is the most notorious aspect of emotional baggage that, if
not released from your body, can be detrimental to your health.
Anger leads to resentment, jealousy, hostility, hatred, and rage; if it
is suppressed and allowed to build up over time, anger can cause
damage to your body’s internal environment, particularly your
blood vessels and cardiovascular system. Many people have experi
a

backflow of

enced fatal heart attacks

or strokes because of their intense anger.
for
piled up
Anger
years and not been appropriately released
can also erupt explosively and violently at the drop of a hat, causing
great harm to yourself or others. Seemingly insignificant events can

that has

often

trigger

this

stored-up

anger.

Many

of the horrendous crimes

160

and

Your

in the world

wars

can

be traced back

of anger.

expression
Prolonged,
creating emotional volatility as
are

angry, you

people

and still

were,

buried

and

are,

to

this

inappropriate

continuous anger disturbs the mind,
well as mental instability. ‘When you

mad, and it is

are

Extraordinary Healing System

referred

by

not

to as

coincidence that insane

“madmen.”

allowed

Anger

that is

so-called “frozen

never
to come out,
deep
anger,”
forms
of
in
and
mental
illness.
severe
implicated
depression
Anger wastes energy and may cause actual damage to your body,
creating a double burden to your healing system. This is why it is
imperative to release anger appropriately and prevent its unhealthy
buildup. Once anger is expressed and released appropriately, other
emotions are often discovered, most notably, pain. If you can release
your anger, feel the pain, and move through the pain, you can dis
cover the most important emotion of all, love.
Here are a few tips for releasing unhealthy emotional baggage:

has been

a

Close your eyes and notice any sensation of discomfort in your
chest, stomach and abdomen, or in any other part of your body.

a

Do your best to put
(“I feel sad”), anger

a

Allow

they

yourself

are

sorrow.

cannot
a

that relates

angry”),

feel’ the full

to a

and

extent

so

feeling,
on,

of your

such

as

sadness

this sensation.

on

feelings,

whether

or
anger, resentment,
(There is a saying among behavioral scientists: “You

heal what you

cannot

feel.”)

Speak aloud or write down the name of this sensation or feeling.
Try to understand what caused it. See whether there might be
other feelings underneath this one that may be encouraging the
expression of this feeling.

might

want to

you release anger and emotional
try the following activities:

help

Write down all you
ence

a

(“I

feel

jealousy, guilt, shame, sadness,

To further

a

to

a name

your

out

negative emotional experi
expressed all you need to say.

at the top of your lungs everything related to
emotional experience while you are driving in

loud

negative
car

you

about your

until you feel you have

Shout
your

want

baggage,

with the windows rolled up

(so nobody

can

hear

you).

The Power of Your Mind and Your

*

Take

pillow as often and
as hard as you like, or punch or kick a punching bag, while
repeating out loud an angry, emotionally charged phrase that is
appropriate to your anger. (I suggest you do this in a room or
area

*

161

Healing System

baseball bat and strike

plastic

a

where

no one can

a

disturb you, and vice versa.)

Perform any other physical activity, including lifting weights or
aerobics, while you focus on releasing anger and other
emotions. This process
Remember that the word emotion

unhealthy

can

be cathartic and

healing.

to move out.

Moving

from the word emote,
your body can often help

anger and other emotional

baggage

to move out

which

means

comes

of your

body

and be released.
*

Seek

*

If you’ve gone

professional counseling

or

therapy.

tears

beyond the anger to feel your pain, you may notice
flowing automatically from your eyes as you feel and release

your

pain. Under these circumstances, the

you cry

can

be

extremely

beneficial for your

release of

while

pain

healing system.

Love:The Most Powerful Emotion of All

important emotion in the world. It
source
strength, and energy for your
healing system. Love can be awakened by outside forces, but its true
origins emanate from the mysterious depths of your own heart. Love
Love is the

most

is connected

to

powerful

and

of nourishment,

is the greatest

the creative forces of the universe, and for this

reason

can
beyond the borders of your mind and body, and extend
to every human heart. ‘Where there is love, there is healing, even in
the face of devastating disease and life’s most horrendous trials,

it

exist

tribulations, and

suffering.

Since the dawn of civilization, wise

and sages, mystics and
philosophers, poets, artists, and healers have all declared that love
is the most powerful healing force in the world. Thanks to new
men

medical research, scientists and doctors

are

now

beginning

to

acknowledge the accuracy of this view. Studies now show that
people who report having more love in their lives, even if that love
is coming oniy from their pet dog or cat, live longer and suffer from
fewer diseases. In the words of Dr. Bernie Siegel, “Love is the most
powerful known stimulant of the human immune system.” In the

your pets, and
Continue
to focus on
you.
that which you love. If you can’t find anything, it’s time to get out
your emotional shovel and start digging through the layers of garbage

whoever and whatever is

that may be

covering

your

near

and dear

to

up your heart. Keep digging until you reach it.
as it has always been: ever comforting, ever

There you will find love

generous, timeless, and eternal.
Love is the essential nature of your soul. When you are in pain
and feeling bad, either in body, mind, or spirit, remember this. If

healing, powerful,

you have tried

everything else

love. It will heal

and

nothing has helped you so far,

try

you!

Laughter

and Humor Are the Best Medicine

When you are laughing, you feel happy and joyful. This positive
mental and emotional state has been clinically and scientifically

health-enhancing effects on your body,
working
your healing system.
I’ve met people well into their eighties, nineties, and beyond,
who, from a health standpoint, did everything wrong. They smoked,
they drank, they overate, and they didn’t exercise. What they did
right, however, was learn how to laugh and not take life or them
selves too seriously. This was the case with Norman Cousins,
well-known author of Anatomy of an Illness, who, while suffering
from a painful, incurable condition, discovered that after just 15
minutes of solid belly laughter while he watched comedy movies, he
got two hours of pain-free sleep. He eventually went on to com
pletely heal himself, eradicating all traces of illness from his body by
following this prescription of laughter.
Humor and laughter also activate the body’s natural pain-control
mechanisms that release endorphins and enkephalins, powerful opiate
like neurochemicals produced by the brain. Laughter can relax the
proven

to

have tremendous

like

an

elixir

on

The Power of Your Mind and Your

163

Healing System

only neutralize the effects of the fight-orflight response, but energize and activate your healing system, as well.
This is why well-known physicians such as Drs. Patch Adams and
Bernie Siegel advocate the health-enhancing benefits of laughing reg
ularly and cultivating a sense of humor in your life.
mind and

and

body

not

A Humorous Rx
To increase your laughter and fun, and
humor, try the following prescription:

~

Watch
times

ring

a

comedy

movies

Watch

*

Read the comic section

*

friends,

books and

cartoon
or rent

seen

highly

standup comedians,

comedy

Watch

comedy

week. If you haven’t

Robin Williams, I

*

and

or

or

to

strengthen

your

television shows

*

Remember

to

the movie Patch Adams,

either in person

“funnies”

healing
nervous

star

or on

regularly

TV

in the newspaper,

magazines.

let

as

out

often

as

or to

your

possible.

the child within you.

Stress and Your
Stress interferes

one to two

shows with your children, grandchildren, or
a Disney animated movie to watch by yourself if

children

Play with

of

recommend it.

you live alone. Go to Disneyland or Disney World,
local amusement or theme park as often as possible.
*

response is activated, adrenaline is
excitation and increased activity in your body.

fight-or-flight
causes

Blood flow, nutrients, and energy are shunted away from your
body’s internal organs and dispatched to the large muscles of move
ment

in your

arms

and

legs

so

you

can

fight

or

flee. Under these

conditions, healing and repair mechanisms are put on hold, and
with diminished blood flow, nutrients, and energy, your healing
system tends to bog down and function poorly. Repeated stress can

164

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

have

damaging effects on your body such as elevating blood pressure
to dangerous levels, restricting blood flow to the heart, and creating
inflammatory lesions in the stomach and intestines. Stress creates
more work for your healing system and can overtax your body’s heal
ing resources.
One definition of stress is information overload—too much
information coming into our lives too quickly, which can over
whelm us. Although there has always been stress associated with the
human condition, today far more information is coming at us from
more

directions, and

than in the past. It is dif
decide which information is important and which is not.

ficult

to

Your life often

based
cates
more

on

rate

prompt and responsible action
information, and too much information compli

depends

correct

much faster

on

taking

and confuses this process. Information overload is
stress for more people than ever before.

resulting

creating

the pace of life increases around
in hurried and frenzied activity. The increased speed

Stress also
us,

at a

seems to

increase

as

and pace of our modern lifestyles contributes to more tension and
stress around us as we rush to meet more deadlines for an increasing

number of

responsibilities

and activities.

Another definition of stress is

a sense

friends, family, community, the world,

of isolation: isolation from

your

self,

or

your

higher

Self.

This isolation may have nothing to do with physical location. Even in
the middle of a sprawling metropolis such as New York City, people

lonely. We can perhaps better
stress
by examining the popular saying
“No man is an island.” Because man is inherently a social creature, to
remain alone or isolated for long periods is stressful. Prisons apply this
principle when they subject troublesome prisoners to solitary confine
ment as the ultimate form of discipline and punishment.
Because of the potentially damaging effects and negative influence
of stress on your healing system, learning how to rest, relax, and
manage stress effectively is critical to your health. Stress-management
techniques activate the “relaxation response,” which completely neu
tralizes and disarms the fight-or-flight response. These techniques
work with your healing system to help activate repair mechanisms
can

feel isolated, disconnected, and

understand the

that

can reverse

management

of isolation

the effects of chronic, stress-related diseases. Stress

techniques

and

strategies

can

help

your

body regain

The Power of Your Mind and Your

and maintain its natural

165

Healing System

state

of health and

vigor.

The

following

story demonstrates the effectiveness of stress management in stimu

lating

the

Conradâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

healing

system.

Story

ambitious young man who had always done
well in school. He was class valedictorian in high school and earned

Conrad

was

excellent

a

highly

grades in college. Upon graduation from college, Conrad
was placed in a progressive telecommunications company as a junior
executive, a position in which he received an excellent salary with
many benefits. He worked long hours at his new job because he
liked the work and wanted to make a good impression on his bosses.
However, since high school, Conrad had experienced increas
ingly disturbing digestive-system symptoms of gas and diarrhea.
Sometimes he had abdominal pain that woke him from his sleep.
These symptoms intensified after he graduated from college. By the
time Conrad came to see me on his twenty-eighth birthday, three
specialists had already diagnosed him with inflammatory bowel
disease. He had been placed on a regimen of corticosteroids, pain
medications, and gastrointestinal antispasmodics. These medications
initially seemed to help, but now they were losing their effectiveness
and made him feel drugged and out-of-sorts. These symptoms inter
fered with his job performance and his personal life.
When I saw Conrad, I noticed that he appeared very agitated
and restless, in addition to his physical symptoms. He told me that,
for as long as he could remember, he had always been tense and
couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t relax. I recommended several lifestyle changes to Conrad,
including a change in his diet, and I also taught him a simple tech
nique to help him relax and manage his stress.
After just six weeks of relaxation training and practice, Conrad
reported marked improvement in his condition. One year later, he
was off all medications and had only an occasional flare-up. Four
years later, Conrad is essentially symptom free, except when life
becomes particularly tense at home or at work. Having made the
connection between his mind and his body and how stress can con
tribute to his inflammatory bowel disease, Conrad knows that
relaxation and stress management are not an option, but rather a
necessity for his continued good health.

166

and Assertiveness to Reduce Stress

Acceptance
One

key

to

reducing

accept the

to

and wisdom

in your life

stress

prayer that many

serenity
ity

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

things

I

12-step

be summed up in the famous

can

use:

programs

change, courage

cannot

â&#x20AC;&#x153;God grant

change

to

the

me

the

seren

things

I can,

know the difference:â&#x20AC;&#x2122; This wish involves both the acceptance

to

of certain limitations and realities in your life, and the determination

improve

those aspects of your life that

losophy

can

take

empower you

sex,

or

head

ing positively, using
to

unhealthy

other self-destructive and

problems

your

running
various

effectively

on to

help

in

approach
lenges,
your

your life.
to

life

reduce

you

as

or

conflicts,

or

alcohol, drugs, food,

to

opportunities,

stress.

Being

heeding

requires think

assertive

the advice of those you

the best solutions for your

are

encourage

by enabling

educational

distractions such

implement

They

ways.

problems, difficulties,

your resources, and

discover and

can

changed. Living by

irresponsible behavior, be assertive and face

Assertiveness and acceptance
stress

myriad

away from

phi

off your shoulders, and it

can

weight

better your life in

to

Rather than

escaping through

tremendous

a

to

this

be

powerful
a

view

more

ways for you

to

trust

problems.
reduce the

creative, solution-oriented

problems

and necessary

and difficulties

as

chal

growth experiences

for

higher good.

Methods and

Stress-Management
The

following

proven stress-management methods

erful, and effective,

Deep

Relaxation

One of the

Techniques

particularly
to

when you

practice

are

simple, pow
regularly.

them

Reduce Your Stress

fortify your healing system is to
by learning how to relax your mind
and body. Because none of us were ever taught this skill, however,
very few of us know how to do it. Instead, to gain temporary relief
most

powerful

neutralize the effects of

ways

to

stress

from the tensions and pressures around us, most of us have learned
to resort to artificial means of relaxing, such as drugs or alcohol.
These substances

mately

can

create

be harmful

dependence,

to our

bodies.

have side effects, and ulti

The Power of Your M~r,d and Your

Relaxation is

one

of the

167

Hea~ng System

most,

if

not

the

most,

important

first

steps on the road to healing. Relaxation neutralizes and reverses the
effects of stress and allows your mind, your nervous system, and all
the systems in your body to cooperate with your healing system.
Relaxation helps to initiate healing mechanisms that operate deep
within the organ tissues of your body.
Relaxation has many proven benefits,

including the ability to
reduce stress, lower blood pressure, improve immune functioning,
and calm and stabilize nervous-system activity, and so it is impor
tant

to

learn this invaluable, essential skill. Relaxation goes far
sitting back with a six-pack of Budweiser and watching a

beyond
Monday-night

football game. While

doing that might be enjoyable,
relax that naturally calm and
more powerful ways
soothe both your mind and your body.
Relaxation is the foundation of other powerful mind-body tech
niques that can support and nurture your body’s healing system.
Learning how to relax is as easy as learning how to drive a car. In the
beginning, all it takes is a little practice.
Here’s a deep relaxation technique that is easy and effective:
there

~

are

Secure
you

~

other,

Make

15-

a

can

to

be

sure

to

20-minute time slot for

quiet

which

you won’t be disturbed

and that you have

period,
phone or

yourself during

and alone.

pager

oven to turn

to answer,

off. Find

during this 15- to 20-minute
responsibilities to attend to—no
no diapers to change, no stove or

no

a room

where you

be free from all distractions. (You
headphones if it is noisy.)

might

can

close the door and

need

to wear

earplugs

or

~

Lie down

on

comfortable
kets

or

are not

a

bed

or on

the floor,

making

sure

you

are

in

a

position
your back. You may need to place blari
under
pillows
your knees, head, and back. Make sure you
on

cold.

Note: Before you

you will find it helpful to get a small tape
recorder and record your voice as you read the remaining instructions

out

proceed,

loud, slowly and calmly. After you have recorded this exercise,

will have your own relaxation tape. You can lie down and let your
words guide you through deep relaxation any time you wish.

you
own

168

o

Keep

the side of your body, with your palms
fold your hands on top of your stomach and

your hands

facing

or

up,
abdomen.

along

Gently close
of your body.

inside
o

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

Notice in the

and-down

area

your eyes and

bring

of your stomach and abdomen the

movement

that

as

it flows in and

occurs

with the

stomach and abdomen
o

Without

trying

to

out

gently fall, gently

control the

up-

of your
When the breath

gently rise,
body, your

contract.

depth

rate or

slight

movement

of your body.
flows into your body, your stomach and abdomen
gently expand. When the breath flows out of your
breath

awareness

your

of this

movement,

allow your mind to be a passive observer of the rhythmical flow
of your breath as it moves in and out of your body, causing your
stomach and abdomen
o

Every

to

rise and fall.

time the breath leaves your

body,

feel all the muscles in

your body releasing tension and becoming more relaxed. (Note:
A natural relaxation phase occurs in your body during each

exhalation of the breath. When you pay close attention to your
body and its breathing processes, you can feel this relaxation

phase quite distinctly.)
o

Now

bring

your

awareness

down

to

your feet and

toes.

Using

your breath and the natural relaxation phase that occurs during
each exhalation, gently relax all the muscles in your feet and toes.
o

After you complete this exercise, gently open your eyes and
stretch your entire body. Make sure not to rush to your next activ

ity~ Take the
experienced.

time

to savor

the calm and relaxed

Know that this is

not an

artificial

state
or

you have

contrived

just

state,

but rather your natural state of being. Focus on remaining in this
calm and relaxed natural state throughout the day, until the next
time you are able to do this exercise.
brings the most effective benefits.

Practicing this

exercise

regularly

Deep Relaxation Strengthens and
Recharges Your Healing System
How

Deep

relaxation

processes in the

quiets down the nervous system and slows metabolic
body so that the healing system can do its work unim

peded. With these obstacles removed, your healing system can
perform more efficiently and effectively. Because the healing system
functions best in a quiet, calm environment, deep relaxation is one of
the most powerful techniques for strengthening your healing system.
Other benefits of deep relaxation include the following:
a

You will feel
more

more

peaceful

relaxed

throughout each day, and you will feel
even during difficult and stressful

from within,

situations.
•

You will become much

their effects
sary

stress

on

your

and how

bering your

more

body.

to

aware

of stressful situations and

You will learn how

manage

natural relaxed

stress more

state.

to

avoid

unneces

effectively by

remem

170

o

Your

You will become much

of such emotions
be able

to move

more aware

You will have

of the harmful consequences

fear and anger in your body, and you will
through and release fear and anger much more
as

effectively and swiftly through
o

Extraordinary Heahng System

more

energy

your

ability

throughout

to

your

relax.
Stress

day.

wastes

energy and causes fatigue in your body. The more relaxed you
are, the less fatigue you will experience in your life. Releasing

o

tension

and

amounts

of natural energy in your

less

relaxed frees

pain through

the

tremendous

up

body.

likely see
period of time.

of

practice

If you suffer from
most

o

more

Relaxation eliminates tension and decreases pain. If you have a
chronic medical problem that causes persistent pain, you will

Because your breath is the link between your mind and your body,
working with your breath is one of the most powerful stress-man

agement modalities known. When you are mentally agitated,
anxious, or under stress of any kind, your breathing is disturbed and

becomes

more

shallow and

becomes slower and

rapid. When
deeper.

you

are

relaxed,

your

breathing
Normally, we go about our activities without any awareness of
our breathing. However, without
your breath, you couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t live.
Your existence depends on the continuous flow of oxygen that
body from the air you breathe.
Improvement in your health occurs when you

comes

into your

can

breathe in

a

more relaxed and easy way, which will result from practicing the
simple yet powerful breathing techniques in this section. Deep

powerful way, both of these factors work synergistically to
fatigue and create more energy in your body, improving the
functioning and performance of your healing system.
In

a

relieve

Breathing Exercise
~

Find

*

are

you

You

lie down

can

in

a

can

absolutely

be alone for 10 tol 5 minutes.

free of all

obligations

and respon

this time slot.

during

are

*

sure

sibilities

sit in

where you

quiet place

a

Make

#1: Breath Awareness

on

your back

as

in

deep relaxation,

or

or on any comfortable, firm surface. Make
comfortable position.

chair

a

you

can

sure

you

Close your eyes and bring your awareness inside of your body.
Notice the gentle movement in your stomach and abdomen.

(You obviously will need

to

read the

instructions for this exercise. For maximum benefits,

however,

to

keep

your eyes open

keep your eyes closed after you have read and familiarized your
self with this technique.)
*

Notice that when the breath flows into your
ach and abdomen gently .expand and rise.

body,

your

stom

*

Notice that when the breath flows

out

body,

your

stom

ach and abdomen

gently

and fall.

Without

trying

control the

continue

to

*

Every time

rate or

observe this automatic

and abdomen
*

to

contract

as

of your

depth

of this

movement

your breath flows in and

out

movement,

in your stomach

of your

body.

the breath flows into your body, feel the oxygen from
entering into the cells and tissues of your body,

your blood

172

Your

and

energizing
body.
o

o

system and entire

feel all the muscles in

Now direct your awareness to the tip of your nose. Watch the
breath as it flows in and out of your body. Again, without trying

control the

focus

rate or

depth

the breath

seeing

on

as

of the

Feel the

your

feel your entire

body,

peaceful.
tranquility in

body.

your entire

healing energy from your breath flowing
body, as your body becomes

and tissue of your

vibrant, and alive with each breath
o

After

body

your mind becoming more calm,
Feel the power of this natural state of calm

and

and

ness

of your breath,

movement

separate from you.

Every time the breath leaves
becoming more relaxed, and
serene,

0

healing

your

Every time the breath leaves your body,
your body becoming more relaxed.

to

o

strengthening

Extraordinary Healing System

like this for 10

breathing

to

into every cell

healthy,

more

your take.

15 minutes,

slowly

open your

eyes. Before you resume your normal activities, appreciate the
power of your breath. Notice its calming influence on your

energizing effect
always available to

mind and its
breath is

stressed, anxious,

or

fatigued at

on

your

body.

Know that your

you should you begin to feel
any time. Keep this awareness of

breath with you as often as possible. Have as your goal to prac
tice this breathing exercise every day for at least 5 tolO minutes.
build up to 30 minutes per day. The
do this exercise is in the mornings or evenings,

you breathe out, make the sound “aahh,” which is the sound
that the doctor asks you to make when he or she examines your

throat. Make

from your throat. You
can place one hand on the front of your neck in the throat area
to check whether your vocal chords are vibrating.
•

and
a

whisper
gentler.

Next,

sure

this

this sound is

same

your throat

area

Gently lengthen
sure

•

as

you

breathe,

making

it softer

Next, close your mouth while you continue to make this same
gentle, whispering sound; allow the breath to flow in and out of
your nose, yet continue

•

sound

coming

you

to

focus

on

and

deepen

coming

from

the flow of your breath, but make

comfortable with your

are

the sound

and vocal cords.

breathing.

Make your breath smooth and flowing as you make this soft,
gentle sound, which should feel like a gentle grating sensation
in your throat. Make this sound on both inhalation and exhala
tion. Continue to gently lengthen your breathing.

a

Make this sound softer
manner.
one

a

you continue

to

breathe in this

fact, make this sound barely audible,

In

sitting

as

next to

you wouldn’t be able

to

so

that

some

hear it.

gently lengthen and slow your breathing as much
as you can, making sure your breath is smooth and flowing as
you make this soft, gentle, grating sound. Make sure you are
comfortable with your breathing, and that you are not experi
encing any sensations whatsoever of forcing or straining or dis
Continue

to

comfort.
a

Keeping

your eyes

closed, continue

to

“breathe with sound” in

this fashion.
a

doing this technique correctly, you will begin to feel
more relaxed, peaceful, and focused in your mind and more
energetic in your body.
If you

are

174

o

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

technique and these sensations for
like, gradually increasing to a maximum of 15 to
Stay

a

with this

as

long

as

you

30 minutes

at

time.

powerful yogic breathing technique from ancient India
known as Ujjayi Breathing. The technique not only combats stress
by helping to keep the mind calm and focused, but it also improves
lung capacity and respiratory function as it brings more energy into
your body. Ujjayi Breathing purifies the nervous system and
enhances the performance capabilities of your healing system.
This is

a

Meditation

to

Reduce Your Stress

a simple yet powerful way to manage your stress. It
calm
can
your mind and rejuvenate your body, and in so doing help
strengthen your healing system. Meditation is not mystical or mag

Meditation is

ordinary, and when done correctly, it can have
a tremendous effect on your physical and mental well being.
In the early 1970s, Dr. Herbert Benson at Harvard University
documented the beneficial therapeutic effects of meditation and its
ability to lower blood pressure. Since then, numerous other studies
have demonstrated the wide-reaching, therapeutic benefits of medi
tation and its ability to help heal many other serious conditions,
including heart disease, cancer, and AIDS.
Meditation occurs when you are not thinking about the past or
the future, and you are just aware of what is happening in the here and
now. We have all experienced a meditative state at one time or
another, even if only for a few brief moments. As children, we experi
ence this state of mind much more frequently. Children like to play a
lot, and, when they play, they are so intent on their playing that they
are often not aware of anything else. They may be hungry~ but they
will completely forget about food because of their total absorption in
their play. This focused state is very much like meditation.
Meditation can help bring back the energy and enjoyment of
life that you experienced as a young child. By relaxing your mind
and helping focus your awareness in the present moment, medita
tion lightens the burdens of your past and future, releasing pent-up
energies and precious internal resources that are now available for
your healing system to use.
ical. It is natural and

There

are

work for you, it is

for meditation. For meditation

techniques

many

175

Healing System

The Power of Your Mind and Your

find

to

style or technique that suits
following meditation is
personal
your
offered as a sample of what is available to you. Meditating regularly
for just 10 to 15 minutes a day, or more if your schedule permits,
will result in tremendous improvement in your health.
important

Observe your breathing and the gentle
breath as it flows in and out of your body,

previous breathing
~

*

As you continue
that you are in a

out

these

onto

these

as

exercises.

to

relax and observe your

room

with very

thoughts

thoughts
are

or

soft and

of the windows in the

high

breathing, imagine

windows

on

either side.

reacting to them, just imagine that
fluffy clouds gently passing in and

room.

relax and observe your breathing, letting any
that comes into your mind be like a soft and fluffy

Continue

to

thought
gently drifting

cloud,
*

of your
described with the

movement

As you breathe and continue to relax, it will be inevitable that
certain thoughts may come into your mind. Rather than hold

ing

*

you have read and familiarized

Do

not

let any

thought

mind; rather, let it

by.

in and

go

on

out

of the windows in your

disturb your peaceful, relaxed
its way like a soft, fluffy cloud

room.

state

of

drifting

176

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

do this meditation whenever you feel yourself becoming
anxious or tense, or when you are experiencing disturbing thoughts

You

can

of any kind. When you become proficient at it, you can
with your eyes open, in the midst of other activities.

Visualization/Guided

Manage Your
From the

Wright

Brothers

do this

Help
Strengthen Your Healing System

Imagery

Stress and

even

to

to

Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas

Edison, all great inventors in the history of the world began with
idea that

imaginative
reality,

seeds of

came

and it

can

from their minds.

play

a

huge

Imagination sows
influencing the per
helps your body maintain

role in

formance of your healing system while it
its natural state of health.
Your mind is

an

the

powerful force, and whatever imaginative thoughts
you dwell on can become a reality in your life. This is especially true
for thoughts about your health. Your brain is a powerful, metaboli
cally active transformer of pure electrical energy; as a result, thoughts
generated in your brain and directed to certainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;areas of your body can
exert a powerful effect on the physiology of that part of your body. By
recognizing the tremendous imaginative power of your mind, you can
learn to harness this power and focus the energy it generates to fortif,r
and boost the effectiveness of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system.
Guided imagery and visualization are powerful techniques that
have helped many people overcome such serious life-threatening ill
nesses as cancer and heart disease by making use of the connection
between their minds and bodies, and using the power of their imag
inations for healing purposes. For example, pioneer cancer specialist
and radiation oncologist Dr. 0. Carl Simonton showed that many
of his patients were able to successfully increase their immune
system activity, stimulate repair and regeneration of damaged tis
sues, and demonstrate reversal of their diseases by using their minds
to imagine their white blood cells removing the tumor cells in their
a

bodies. In his classic book Love, Medicine and Miracles, Dr. Bernie

Siegel shares the stories of many of his cancer patients who also over
came their diseases through the successful application and use of
visualization and imagery techniques. Dr. Marty Rossman, in his
book Healing Yourself also shares stories of numerous patients of his
who healed themselves through the use of these specific techniques.

The Power of Your Mind and Your

177

Healing System

picture is worth a thousand
words.” Because your mind thinks in terms of pictures or images, it
continually processes information by visualizing and imagining
anticipated scenarios as you project yourself into the future. This is
how your mind thinks and makes plans, and it is one of the most
natural and powerful things you do. Your body is influenced by your
mental activities, and by this same process you can influence the
You’ve

state
or

no

of your

doubt heard the

saying

“A

health. However, this influence

own

can

work for you

against you. Consider, for example, the case of worrying.
Worry is the negative application of your imagination, fearfully

projecting your mind into
scenarios of
increases

events

stress.

to

the future and visually

This process

come.

imagining worst-case
anxiety~ which

causes

Stress results in the constriction of blood vessels and

inhibits the flow of vital

bodily fluids,

which

result in conges
tion and accumulation of toxins in various parts of your body. In
addition to high blood pressure and heart disease, chronic worrying
has been shown

to

contribute

to

can

the formation of ulcers and

numer

other illnesses and diseases.

ous

Conversely,
learn

to

numerous

studies have also shown that when

harness the constructive forces of their minds and

the harmful habit of persistent

improve.

For this

reason,

worrying,

their health will

it is vital that you learn how

people

overcome

invariably

to use

your

mind and the power of your imagination to improve your health
and the quality of your life. Visualizing or imaging can be an impor
tant

ally

for your healing system
of your body.

specific

areas

How

Begin Guided-Imagery

to

Guided-imagery

as

it directs

healing energies

and Visualization

and visualization

techniques

to

Techniques

are

best

performed

with your eyes closed and when you are in a relaxed state. Begin as
you would with the deep relaxation methods, and the breathing
that you just read about in this section. Make sure you
comfortable position and your breathing is slow and relaxed.

techniques
are

in

a

When you feel your mind becoming calm and your body relaxed,
introduce the specific imagery and visualization techniques that best
suit your needs. Please do

by
of

the few

not

feel limited

or

restricted in any way

suggested techniques listed here. Many wonderful styles
imagery and visualization techniques are available from trained

178

Your

teachers and
erence

professional therapists,

from the books listed in the ref

book, and from

section of this

Extraordinary Healing System

your

own

creative

imagination.

heal from any affliction in your
are currently trying
body, you will realize the best results by practicing imagery and visu
alization techniques regularly over an extended period of time, until

If you

you
set

are

to

completely

aside

at

least 15

healed. For serious,

life-threatening conditions,
a day, for the practice of

30 minutes, twice

to

techniques. For illnesses that are not life
are less severe, practicing these techniques once a
minutes will be helpful.

and visualization

imagery
threatening and
day for 15 to 30
Positive

Imaging for Activating

Your

Healing System

o

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;While you are in a relaxed and serene state,
closed and your awareness focused within.

o

See

yourself as

o

See

yourself with

small,

very
a

standing in

Allow

clipboard and pencil

Without
o

image of your healing

an

notice the first

judging,

your eyes

the interior of your
in

on your head, as you monitor and make
various internal organ systems.
o

keep

system

shape

to
or

hand, and
notes

a

body.

hard hat

of your

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

form in your mind.
form that appears.

yourself speaking to your healing system. Hear its gentle and
confident voice answer back to you. Spend time carrying on a
See

conversation with it,

just

as

you would with any other person.

Ask your healing system any question, and tell it anything you
wish. Try to get to know it. Make sure you listen carefully to
responses to your
it whether it has

this
o

name

After
system

o

questions and dialogue. You might want to
a personal name and whether you could

use

in future communications with it.

dialoguing
on

ask

a

more

and

healing system
about which you

your

to

or

are

any

area

familiar with your

healing
yourself gently directing
of your body that needs healing

becoming
personal level,

see

concerned.

yourself calmly and persistently speaking words of encour
agement to your healing system and the other systems in your
body under its supervision, to make sure your body is function
ing optimally and harmoniously.
See

The Power of Your Mind and Your

179

Healing System

~

notes of your healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress as
continue
to encourage it to perform its tasks of repair and
you
restoration where they are needed in your body.

~

Ask your healing system what it needs from you
continue to do its job most efficiently.

~

Thank your
behalf.

~

Make

~

Breathe life into these

yourself making

See

a

healing

point

system for the work it is

to meet

plete

this exercise,

have

just

again

in the

feelings

near

so

that it

doing

on

can

your

future.

and into your

body as you com
maintaining positive feelings about what you

visualized.

~

Relax and take

~

Open

~

Write down any

a

deep

breath

your eyes when you

insights

as

are

or

you finish this exercise.

done.

thoughts

about your

experience.

visualization/guided-imagery technique is only a small
to you. You can modify and apply this
sampling
technique to suit any health condition that you would like to
improve. The beauty of visualization and guided imagery is that
they can enable you to gain incredible insights and access key infor
This

of what is available

of your health. Further information about
visualization and guided imagery is given in the resource section in
mation about the

state

the back of this book.

Pray

to

Prayer
the

Reduce Your Stress

powerful
powerful known

serves as a

stress-management tool,

perhaps

one

of

channel of

Prayer can open
communication for you to dialogue with the wise and infinite
powers of our sacred universe that exist outside as well as within
most

you. In this

capacity,

a

prayer offers you

problems

and worries

and

in the process.

stress

to man.

to a

higher

Prayer

is

power,
one

a

way

to

relieving

of the oldest,

hand
a

over

your

lot of tension

most

universal,

and most effective methods of stress reduction. However, for prayer
to work for you, you have to be comfortable with the type of prayer
you use,

choose

as

to

well

pray.

as

the

context,

style,

and method with which you

180

Your

Many

scientific studies have

now

Extraordinary Healing System

been conducted that demon

of prayer. One study even showed
who were prayed for from a distance

the

therapeutic efficacy
improvement in people
and didn’t know it. Many of these people didn’t even believe in God.
In Dr. Larry Dossey’s best-selling book Healing Words, this fascinat
ing study and others are discussed in great detail.
No matter how embittered or cynical you might have become
during your life’s journey, it is never too late to attempt to contact this
divine source through honest and sincere prayer. Miracles can occur

strate

clinical

when you do. In fact, consider how you got on this earth and the fact
that you are alive right now. Those are in themselves miracles!
‘Whether

iation,

or even

particular religious or spiritual affil
are an agnostic or an atheist, you can still learn
and contact the loving, intelligent force and

you have

or not

if you

a

open your heart
power that created you and sustains your very life.
When you do take the time to unburden your troubles
to

to

a

higher power, sharing all your pain, sorrow, problems, fears, and dis
appointments, make sure that you take a few moments to wait for
your prayers when you have finished. You
often obtain tremendous insights and wisdom in this process.

wise counsel in response
can

However,

to

higher powers are known to speak very softly and quietly,

so

enhance your ability to receive a response to your prayers, first calm
your mind by practicing relaxation, breathing, meditation, or all three
to

of these in sequence before you initiate the act of prayer.
Alternatively, you might find it helpful to release your pain,
worries, tensions, and fears to the ocean, the sky~ the stars, a moun

tain,

or

some

comforts and

friend, loved

other

special entity, force,

or

place

in

nature

that

you. You may do the same with a trusted
wise counsel, or the great unknown mystery of

reassures

one, or

the universe that remains open and receptive to creative ideas,
insights, and the healing force of love that exists in your heart.

Peace of Mind and Your

body does not operate in a vacuum. To a large degree, its state
registers and reflects what is going on in your life, which
turn is a product of your mental habits and thoughts. A crazy,

Your

of health
in

Healing System

The Power of Your Mind and Your

181

Healing System

chaotic, troublesome life, born of a disturbed mind, creates a stress
ful life, creates chronic physical tension, depletes the body’s energies,
the immune system, repeatedly triggers the fight-or-flight
response, and interferes with the performance of your healing
system while it renders the body susceptible to illnesses and diseases

depresses

from both internal and external agents.
When your mind is disturbed, like

an

out-of-control roller

furious tempest, it can create violent mood swings that
can upset your body’s internal balance. These mood swings cause the
release of potent hormones and strong chemical modulators that can
coaster or a

wreak havoc

on

your

body’s

internal organs and tissues. A disturbed

mind opens the door for a plethora of diseases to enter your body,
creating opportunities for a smorgasbord of potentially dangerous

disorders that
you

to an

can

make your life miserable and

early grave. Your healing system
under these conditions.

efficiently
A peaceful mind, conversely,
contributes
your

to a more

creates a

quite possibly take
cannot possibly operate

relaxed, healthy body and

harmonious internal environment in which

system can work smoothly and efficiently. When your
peace, and you are relaxed and tranquil, feelings of love,

healing

mind is

at

happiness, and gratitude naturally and spontaneously
feelings produce powerful hormones and gentle, sooth
ing nerve impulses that bathe and nourish your healing system in a
flood of loving, life-giving energy. Just as a calm sea makes for
smoother travel for any ship, so too a peaceful and tranquil mind
contentment,

arise. These

makes for

a

calmer, smoother,

more

harmonious internal environ

for your

body’s healing system.
Just as your body’s natural state is one of health, so, too, your
mind’s natural state is one of peace. Keeping your mind calm and
relaxed may take some training if you have forgotten what it is like
to be peaceful, but it will be well worth the effort. A peaceful mind
is essential for a healthy body. If you want to effectively promote the
work of your healing system, one of the most important things you
can do is to actively recruit your mind in this process by keeping it
peaceful and calm. The stress-management techniques described in
this chapter, along with the chapter’s other prescriptive elements,
provide the most powerful, time-proven methods to help you
ment

achieve and maintain this

most

valuable of all

possessions.

182

Your

Closing Thoughts

on

of Your Mind and Your

Extraordinary Healing System

the Power

Healing System

chapter the powerful influence your mind has
over your healing system. Every thought that is registered in your
mind has the potential to create powerful chemical changes in your
body, changes that affect the processes of healing and repair. Staying
calm and relaxed, positive, optimistic, and enthusiastic is vital to
maximize the incredible ability of your mind to cooperate with, sup
port, nourish, and strengthen your healing system.
The practical strategies, techniques, and exercises prescribed in
this chapter are based on proven clinical experience, but to reap their
benefits, just reading them is not enough. Set aside time as suggested
to practice one or more of these extremely helpful techniques, so
they will become a part of your daily routine and lifestyle, just like
brushing your teeth is. If you or a loved one is currently battling a
major, life-threatening illness, doing this is not an option; it is a

You have

seen

necessity.
The next
stress

in this

chapter

in your life

as

will reinforce the

we

explore

how

system has enabled many people
learn how these people were able

and how,

healing

by harnessing

system, you

to

importance

of

minimizing

a strong and healthy healing
achieve great longevity. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll

reach the age of 100 or more,
the energy and power of your extraordinary

can, too.

to

CHAPTER 7

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,
and Your Healing System

our

for the
comes

ability

to

live

longer

is

not a matter

of mere chance, but is,

systematic, self-determined process. Your
part,
equipped with its own healing system and can last, on
most

a

age, 100 years. Of course the choices you make in your

body
aver

everyday life
can shorten or lengthen this time. The point of living longer, how
ever, is not just to extend your life, but to enjoy a higher quality of
life as you age, and to participate fully in life, remaining enthusias
tic and active to the very end of your days. Doing this requires you
to be healthy. The process of achieving a long life while remaining
healthy is what I call long-lasting health.
If you carefully study the lives of people who have enjoyed longlasting health, you will discover primarily personal health habits,
diets, lifestyles, and attitudes that are consistent with the ideas and
methods that work with their bodiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; healing systems and that have
been presented in this book. Understanding and applying these
ideas and methods will help you enjoy long lasting health, as well.
But you must also be prepared for certain challenges you might have
to face as you age. The following story illustrates my point.
An elderly woman was suffering from a painful knee condition
that had been troubling her for some time. The pain was only in her
right knee, but it was severe enough to make walking difficult. She

184

Your

couldn’t

her it

figure

out

what

was

causing

Extraordinary Healing System

the

pain.

Her friends all told

the result of old age, and to stop worrying about it.
pain interfered with the quality of her life, she

was

However, because the

accept this explanation, and she
appointment with her doctor to find out what

refused

to

When this
ined her knees

made

an

on.

the doctor’s office, the doctor

woman went to

exam

one way and then
rubber hammer to check their

He first bent her knees

thoroughly.
banged them with a

the other. Then he

reflexes. She

eventually
was going

was

asked

to

stand

and down, first with both feet

on one

leg at a time,

and then

the floor, then with

on

hop up
right
just
the

thoroughly examined the
other parts of her body. At the conclusion of his exam, he shrugged
his shoulders and replied, “I’m sorry, ma’am; I can find nothing seri
ously wrong with your knee. I’m afraid it’s just due to old age.”
The woman, by now completely fed up with this type of expla
nation, replied, “I’m sorry to disagree with you doctor, but there
leg,

and then with the left. The doctor also

must

be another

reason,

because my other knee is the

exact same

age

perfectly fine. Thank you and have a good day!”
This story illustrates two very simple, yet important points that
I want to clarify and emphasize here at the outset of this chapter.
and it is

Understanding them now will help you to better grasp the chal
lenges of working with your healing system as you age.
First, there is an unhealthy, yet common tendency in our society;
and among our medical professionals, to attribute most forms of chron
ic illness to advancing age. As you age and develop symptoms of one
another, it is all too
Second, if you want to

kind

to

or

educate

and

easy

to

ideas about what

on

healthy as
ignore negative, pessimistic, fearful,

remain

yourself and learn

erroneous

old age.
you age, you will need

blame these symptoms

to

causes

illness. Instead, focus

on

the

task at
healing system to help
working
all the methods,
achieve
health,
incorporating
long-lasting
you
learned
have
so far.
strategies, and techniques that you

important

hand:

Advancing Age

Does Not Cause Illness

though advancing age and illness are often linked, if you exam
the facts and pay careful attention to the underlying causes of

Even
ine

with your

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

most

to
we

diseases,

and Your

you will discover that old age and illness have

do with each other. The
grow older

age. Let

me

185

Healing System

are

caused

nothing

majority of the diseases that afflict
by factors that have nothing to do

us as

with

explain.

If you look around the world and peruse the international public
health data, you’ll see that the majority of the diseases that afflict us
age in the Western industrialized societies are virtually absent in
poor, developing countries. These diseases include heart disease (the
as we

world’s number-one killer),

blood pressure, diabetes, emphy
sema, arthritis, cancer, and many other conditions that are rampant
in North America and Europe, but that are rare in places such as

high

Africa and Asia. These diseases, referred

Schweitzer
linked

as

to

by

the late Dr. Albert

“diseases of civilization,” have been shown

factors under

control, such

to

be

directly

diet, lifestyle,
and personal health habits. These factors accumulate over a lifetime,
to

our own

as our

and their cumulative effects become

increasingly harmful as we age,
but they are not caused by age. Eventually, they just take their to11.
For example, a person who continually smokes two packs of cig—
arettes a day for 25 years or more is likely to develop emphysema or
lung cancer when he or she reaches 60 or 70 years of age. Does this
mean that emphysema and lung cancer are diseases of old age?
Absolutely not. It means that these conditions are more likely to
occur in people whose bodies have been abused over a long period
of time and, for this reason, are more commonly seen with advanc
ing years. If you continually harm your body and fail to respect or
cooperate with your healing system, it is a simple fact that, in time,
you will most likely become ill. The abuse factor, rather than the age
factor, causes the majority of these illnesses.
If you carefully examine other major illnesses, including dia
betes, heart disease, arthritis, and

cancer,

among others, you will

invariably discover similar underlying factors and mecha
at play, factors and mechanisms that are much more related to
unhealthy diets, lifestyles, and personal health habits than to old
age. So I will repeat myself by stating that old age and illness have
nothing to do with each other.
As you work with your healing system, remember the impor
tance of adopting an attitude similar to the lady in the story with the
painful knee. Make use of the power of your mind and your own
almost
nisms

186

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

directly influence your healing system,
your energies on creating positive health for your
self. As long as you are alive, no matter how compromised your
health might currently be, your healing system has the capacity to
heal your illnesses and improve your health.

personal
and

health choices

to

concentrate

How Your Mind Affects Your

Healing System
“You

are as

old

as

As You

you think you are” is

Age

modern scientific

saying in many
According to our

a common

cultures and folk traditions around the world.

this dictum appears to contain
much truth. Your attitude about your health and your life has a

direct effect

on

understanding,

your

Your mental

healing system.

attitude, and

your

expectations about

your health

and health outcomes, which reflect

healing-system functioning, are
strongly linked. Many studies have demonstrated that a healthy
mental attitude not only creates healthier biochemistry in the brain
and body, but also is more likely to support a healthy, active lifestyle.
Both factors directly benefit your healing system, producing a
healthier, disease-free body and a longer life span. A positive attitude
will strengthen your healing system, whether you are 30 years old or
103 years old, and it will literally add years to your life.
In his book, RealAge, Michael Roizen, M.D., makes clear that,
based

brain-body con
impulses produced
powerful physical changes in every organ

nection, wherein neurochemicals and electrical

by

your brain

can

cause

and tissue in your body. These factors have a direct impact on the
vitality of your healing system and how you age.
As a consequence of these findings, Dr. Roizen discovered that
how old you are in biological years can be very different from how
old you are in chronological years. For example, people in their
twenties and thirties who abuse their bodies with tobacco,

drugs,

or

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

187

Healing System

alcohol; live

high-stress lives; have poor diets; practice unsafe sex; do
not exercise; reflect unhealthy mental attitudes; and exhaust the
resources of their healing systems often wear their bodies out by the
time they are 40 or 50 years of age. These people often become sick
and disabled, dying prematurely from unnatural causes. At any
point in time, these people appear much older than their actual age,
and, in biological terms, they are much older. These people have not
learned how to honor and work with their healing systems, and in the
end (which usually comes much sooner than need be), having become
old before their time, they pay with their lives. Conversely, other
people in their seventies, eighties, nineties, and even hundreds are bio
logically much younger than their birth dates indicate. They exhibit
not only bodies that are far more youthful than their chronological
age, but mental attitudes and thinking that are similarly youthful.
They have mastered the art of learning how to cooperate with their
healing systems, and they are perfect examples of how, by doing so,
the rewards of superior and long-lasting health have become theirs.
Elizabethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Story

The story of Elizabeth, one of my patients, is a good example of how
your attitude about your age significantly affects your healing system.
Elizabeth, 83 years of age, had regularly practiced yoga for several years,
but she had

not come to

class for about six months. When I asked her

traveling for an extended period and
had neglected to stretch and move her body. She felt embarrassed by
how stiff she had become in the interim, especially in her hands and
fingers, which had become quite painful. Because of the pain, she
decided to see another doctor while she was traveling. He diagnosed
her as having arthritis of her hands and fingers. This diagnosis further
discouraged her and sent her into a mild depression. She said she was

why,

she said that she had been

feeling disabled, handicapped, and old, and she commented that she
was afraid she could no longer keep up with the younger students.
I urged Elizabeth to return to class. She sheepishly appeared the
following morning. I told her to take it easy and not push herself.
She did fine. After the

class, Elizabeth thanked

me

for

insisting

that

return.
day, more than three years ago, she hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
missed a class. Not only has her mental attitude improved and her

she

Since that

depression lifted,

but her

physical flexibility

has

improved

as

well,

188

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

especially in her hands and fingers. Today, there is no evidence of any
arthritis in her hands. By changing her mental outlook about her age
and learning to work with her healing system, she was able to regain
her health. Elizabeth

Bill’s
Bill

Story:

was a

One

patient

I

appears and behaves much younger than
no sign of “old age” setting in any time soon.

now

her 83 years, and there’s

Among Many
met

through

my work with Dr. Dean Ornish. Bill

importance of cultivating a healthy mental attitude
about his age while he successfully overcame and reversed his heart dis
ease. At the age of 85, after he had succeeded in winning back his
health, Bill was interviewed by a reporter who inquired about his secret
to a healthy, vibrant life, which he obviously demonstrated by regularly
traveling around the world, hiking in alpine altitudes, and practicing
yoga every day. To this question, Bill replied, “Old age is something
that happens to someone who is at least 15 years older than me!” This
is the kind of attitude that improves the performance of your healing
system and contributes to long-lasting health.
In my 10 years of work with Dr. Ornish, I had the opportunity
work
with many other wonderful patients. Like Bill, these folks
to
demonstrated remarkably optimistic mental attitudes about their
lives and their ages, in spite of their histories of severe, advanced,
life-threatening disease. In fact, it turned out that an optimistic
mental attitude was critical to strengthening and fortifying their
healing systems in their quests to successfully reverse their heart dis
ease, one of the world’s most dangerous and deadly of all diseases.
An interesting finding that surfaced early on in Dr. Ornish’s research
supported this observation about the relationship between their atti
tude and their success in overcoming heart disease.
demonstrated the

Before Dr. Ornish’s research,
that heart disease

studies had

was

repeatedly

an

numerous

studies had concluded

irreversible and incurable disease. These

demonstrated that

heart disease, it would continue

once a

person

developed

progress and get worse as the
him or her. Again, this is exactly

to

person got older, eventually killing
what would be predicted based on

our

society’s

current

views about

aging and disease. In the early stages of Dr. Ornish’s groundbreak
ing research, which uncovered new evidence about how the heart
could heal itself, the general expectation, based on these beliefs, was

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

that if reversal of heart disease

out to

were

be the

case:

est

to

Ornish,

Upon
sense.

The oldest and sickest

what the experts had

was

possible,

it would be

seen

in those

showed the great
in the shortest time. These results ran completely

improvement

counter to

was

younger and had less severe disease.
what was predicted, however, the opposite turned

who

patients
Contrary

189

Healing System

patients

predicted. Everyone, including

Dr.

stumped.

further

The oldest

inspection, however,
patients with the most

the results

began

to

make

advanced heart disease had

tried all the latest

high-tech interventions, including surgery, with
out success. Having exhausted their options, they turned to Dr.
Ornish out of desperation. Because their lives were on the line, these
people were highly motivated to improve their health, much more
so than their younger, less-ill peers. They also recognized the need to
enlist a positive mental attitude in their quest to overcome their ill
nesses. Because of their motivation and attitude, regardless of their
advanced age, these people demonstrated the greatest adherence to
all the elements of Dr. Ornishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program, and they showed the great
est

reversal of disease and the

shortest

period of time.

Once

most

again,

improvement

this story illustrates that

less of your age or the severity of your illness, your
ready to heal you when you start to work with it.
I know of many

people with

in health in the

other diseases,

regard

healing system

is

including hyperten

sion, diabetes, arthritis, and cancer, who have similar stories. The
evidence seems clear. When you harbor a negative mental attitude
about your life and fail to take good care of yourself, you impede the
function of your healing system and are more likely to age faster,

easily, and die sooner. Conversely, when
positively align your mental attitude and personal
health habits with your healing system, you are much more likely to
and to live longer, as well.
enjoy greater health as you age.
succumb

you learn

to

illness

more

to

.

.

How Your Beliefs Affect
and Your
Your attitudes,

erfully

Aging
Healing System

thoughts, and beliefs about your age and health pow
performance of your healing system. These

influence the

190

Your

beliefs

are

strongly shaped by your

Extraordinary Healing System

culture and the

society

in which

you live. For example, if the society in which you live says that old
age begins when you reach your fortieth or fiftieth birthday, you
will probably start to feel old when you approach this age. If people

around you also start telling you that you look old, this will reinforce
your inner belief that indeed you are getting old. When you start

feeling older,

pain or feeling of discomfort in your body
unhealthy belief, which in turn will undermine
healing system and accelerate the aging process.

any ache

will reinforce this

or

the work of your
As I discussed earlier,

to

wrongly

believe that

as

you grow older

your health will continue to deteriorate with each passing day is also
common in Western cultures. Further, it is generally believed that

there
you

are

are

diseases

destined

specific

to

to contract

old age, and that, as you become older,
one or more of these illnesses. Attached

to these beliefs is the fear that old age is a natural progression of
illnesses and maladies in preparation for the final act of human life,

which is death, also considered

terrifying experience
nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be the

of all. (As

to

be the

we

shall

most
see

painful,

tortuous,

and

later, this scenario need

case.)

These beliefs and attitudes

fearful

expectations concern
ing what kind of fate awaits you as you get older. For example, in
the West, particularly in America, older people are looked upon as a
burden to society, and old age is considered an illness. Elderly people
are often sequestered and farmed out to nursing homes to live out
their lives. No one wants to spend his or her final days lonely and
isolated, surrounded by four walls, cut off from family, friends, and
loved ones, and so the aging view old age as a curse and a punishment.
These factors conspire to create a tremendous amount of underlying
anxiety about growing old that can interfere with the function of the
healing system and accelerate an elderly personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s demise.
Because of these negative beliefs and fears about old age, people
in the West often try to avoid and deny the aging process altogether.
To escape the terrible curse of growing older, people will desperately
try to turn back the clock and reclaim their youthful appearance with
superficial cover-ups. Coloring their hair when it begins to show gray;
using drugs; using hairpieces or surgically transplanted hair to com
pensate for hair loss; undergoing face lifts, chin lifts, and tummy
tucks; receiving hormone injections; overdoing vitamins and supplecreate

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

191

Healing System

and

taking prescription medications to revive sexual vigor are
examples that, while they initially might appear to be good
just
ideas, often represent attempts to run away from the deeper fears of
growing old. Attempting to look younger on the outside while being
ments;
a

few

terrified about

growing

older

on

the inside

only

feeds into the dehu

manizing illusion that your body is all you are and all you have. As
long as you fear growing old, a fear that causes mental and physical
tensions that interfere with the
you will

of your healing system,
extend your lifespan in a way

functioning

gracefully or be able to
quality of your life.
improves
To resolve this internal strife, learning how to relax and accept
yourself as you are, in spite of your advancing age, will be helpful.
Doing this will set in motion the processes of cooperation between
your mind, body, and healing system, and will allow you to enjoy nat
ural, long-lasting health for many years to come. To help you relax and
accept yourself as you are, begin regularly practicing the relaxation and
stress-management techniques that are recommended in this book.
not

that

age

the overall

These methods work from the inside

able aids

to

help

Expectations

you

and

By studying people
great longevity~
tudes about

not

only

and will prove to be invalu
look younger, but feel younger, as well.
out

Longevity
who

we can

consistently

learn

a

benefit

remain

healthy

while

enjoying

lot about howcultural beliefs and atti

systems and contribute to
long-lasting health. For example, among the Hunza, who dwell in the
mountains of Central Asia and consistently live beyond the age of 100

aging

can

our

healing

years, there is considerable lack of disease. His peers consider a 70year-old Hunza man to be. a youngster, and they expect him to remain

healthy, active, and productive until well beyond this age. Because of
the powerful impact the mind has on the body, the cultural mindset
and expectations of the Hunza exert a positive influence on their heal
ing systems, contributing to less illness, greater overall health, and
increased longevity If you expect to be working in the fields and
riding your horse when you are 100 years old, as the Hunza typically
do, you will have a much greater likelihood of remaining disease free
and performing these activities at that age. The Hunza are able to age
gracefully, stay healthy, and live longer because they have a much
healthier outlook on life at all stages, including old age.

192

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

people are living longer, what once
was considered old age clearly no longer applies to today’s standards.
As I’ve previously mentioned, centenarians, people who live to 100
years or more, currently make up the fastest growing segment of the
U.S. population. Considerjng this statistic, there is no medical
reason why a 70-year-old person cannot fully participate in an active
life, including running a farm, driving a tractor, owning a business,
working as a doctor or a mailman, playing tennis, snow skiing, water
skiing, surfing, or even hang-gliding or bungee-jumping. In fact,
because of these increasing longevity statistics (the average American
male now lives to 74 years, the American female to 79 years), the
U.S. federal government’s Social Security program is presently
encouraging senior citizens to continue working past the age of 65,
until age 70, before they begin collecting retirement benefits. These
longevity statistics create changes in expectations about our health
and our capacity for aging as a nation. These changes will, in turn,
create better cooperation and support of our healing systems, which
will contribute to healthier people, fewer diseases, and still-greater
longevity across the board.
Even in the West,

The

now

Myth

that

of Age-Related Diseases

and Your
When

comparing

Healing System

disease trends around the world,

one

is struck

the remarkable absence in non-Western countries of diseases that

by
are

looked upon as naturally endemic to the West, especially those dis
eases that are associated with genetics and aging, such as heart disease,

diabetes, arthritis, emphysema,

cancer,

and others. If these diseases

age”
truly due to
genetics, then we should be seeing
widespread prevalence of these diseases in the elderly on a global scale;
were

“old

and

specific to Western societies and cul
tures, and they are due to causes that are anything but natural. As we
discussed earlier, unhealthy diets, lifestyles, and mental-emotional fac
tors that cause stress and create chemical imbalances in the body’s
but

we are not.

These diseases

internal environment

are

the

are

root causes

of these diseases.

One of the better-known studies that demonstrates this fact

compared rates of diabetes

in older

Japanese

men

who lived in

Japan

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

with those who had moved

to

193

Healing System

Hawaii, and with those who had

the U.S. mainland. The

study observed very low rates
men living
Japan, where diabetes is quite
rare. Rates of diabetes were twice as high in the group that had
moved to Hawaii. In the third group that had immigrated to the
U.S. mainland, where the men had adopted Western diets and
lifestyles, the rates of diabetes were so high that they were identical
to those of other Americans of the same age group. This study pro
vided strong evidence that diet, lifestyle, and personal health habits,
not age or genetics, were responsible for the increasing rates of dia
betes observed in these Japanese men. Other studies have shown
similar increases of other common diseases in immigrant populations
who left their native countries to settle in North America and Europe.
I share this information so that you will not be fooled by the
conventional myths about aging and illness that abound in our soci

immigrated to

of diabetes in the older

in

ety~ I don’t want you to fall prey to the illusion that there are diseases
“out there” that are more powerful than you are. Instead, I want you
to

understand that the

causes

of most

major

diseases

are

personal health habits, and atti
neglect, ignore,
against your healing system.
These factors, which are the ultimate forces in determining whether
you will remain healthy or become ill, are within your control.
When these factors are aligned in support of your healing system,
you can feel confident in knowing that, even as you age, you will be
simple

factors such

underlying

as

diet, lifestyle,

tudes that

able

to

and work

conquer and defeat almost every illness and disease that life

may throw your way.

following major categories of ill
nesses,
advancing age, are not caused by
age-related factors at all. (For specific recommendations for learning
to work with your healing system to prevent and overcome these ill
nesses, refer to Part Two and to earlier chapters.)
Alzheimer’s disease is prevalent in the elderly and is associated with
Contrary

to

popular belief,

the

often associated with

memory loss and

Alzheimer’s is
and have

for

one

not

progressive dementia,

common

received

reason

or

or

loss of intellectual function.

in senior citizens who have been

ongoing, adequate

neglected

intellectual stimulation,

or,

another, have withdrawn from social interaction.

Atzheimer’s appears to be more of a functional neurological problem
than related to a specific anatomical defect. For instance, when the

194

Your

Extraordrnary Healing System

brain becomes overloaded with information, and

Although experts
trying to discover
present, symptoms
genetic link or determine another underlying factor to its cause, a

are
a

and tension

stress

are

worsen.

recent

icant

13-year study concluded that social factors

contributing causes

to

are

the

most

signif

Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease.

In many cases, symptoms of Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

improve through
learning
calming down the
adequate
nervous system, practicing regular stress management, and paying
closer attention to all of the factors that improve the health of the
healing system. Proper diet, along with natural remedies, including
gingko, which improves blood flow to the brain, may also be helpful.
Arthritis is a general category of common joint diseases. Arthritis
social

how

contact,

to

can

relax while

encompasses several different illnesses that have

as

their

common

progressive stiffness, swelling, and pain in one or more
although more common in old age, often
joints.
show up in joint areas of the body that have been neglected, have
not been used because of previous injury or lack of movement, or
have been overused. The most common joints affected include the
hands and fingers, toes, knees, hips, and spine. But often more than
just physical factors contribute to arthritis; these conditions usually
become worse during times of stress, emotional upheaval, or dietary
imbalances, or from other causes. The good news is new evidence
denominator

These illnesses,

that, like heart disease, many different forms of arthritis
and curable. Of

course,

this evidence is

not

are

surprising

understand that your body has a healing system.
Cancer is often erroneously attributed to the

aging

reversible

when you

process

by

health experts who cite diminished immune function in the elderly
as a primary contributing factor. Cancer can affect all age groups,
and

although

certain

cancers

may

occur more

frequently

associated risk factors, if avoided,

in the eld

can signif
erly,
closely
icantly lower cancer risk. In working with your healing system,
preventing cancer is easier than treating it. For this reason, it is
better to incorporate early preventive measures that include a
healthy diet and lifestyle. If cancer occurs, treating it is easier if it is
caught early, and many cases have been arrested and cured in the early
stages. Even in advanced stages, however, cancer can be successfully
defeated if you enlist the help of your healing system and cooperate
with it on every level. There are many case reports of people who have

other

more

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

195

Healing System

successfully overcome cancer, even
Bernie Siegel and 0. Carl Simonton
shared many of these inspirational

in its advanced stages. Doctors
are two cancer

doctors who have

and courageous stories in their
books. The more you learn, the clearer it becomes that advancing age
does not cause cancer, and not only the young, but people of all ages
strong and effective healing system, conquer it.
Depression is more commonly seen in the elderly, but it

who have

a

can

elderly for whom a lack of meaning or pur
life
has
become
pronounced, circumstances are ripe for
pose in
depression to set in. The danger of depression is that in its more
advanced stages it can lead to premature death through suicide.
Because depression also acts as a stressor, it can cause harmful phys
iological effects as well, damaging the healing system and shortening
your life span. Depression has been linked to such stress-related dis
orders as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Depression is more
common in more intelligent people who, with their superior intel
lectual skills, tend to become prisoners of their own repeated
negative thinking. For these people, learning how to relax, calm the
mind, and get involved in activities that uplift the spirits is impor
tant. Even though depression is traditionally classified as a mental
illness, physical factors often can contribute to this problem. In
working with the healing system, a combined mind-body approach
is usually the best strategy for reversing and overcoming depression,
regardless of your age.
In most cases, you can avoid or reverse depression by staying
involved and connected to family, friends, and loved ones; volun
teering in meaningful activities; being around children, animals, and
nature; developing a sense of gratitude; remembering to have fun
and not take life too seriously; and focusing more on the spiritual
aspects of life. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Whether you are 22 or 82, the same strategies apply,
and you will gain the same benefits.
Exercise and simply moving the body can be effective in lifting
mild and moderate depression. A wholesome diet, combined with St.
Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wort, a natural herbal medication commonly prescribed in
Germany, may also be helpful. Learning to let go of unwanted mental
and emotional baggage can lighten loads and lift spirits considerably.
Practicing self-forgiveness and learning to release anger and hostility
are also often helpful. A great book that deals with this subject is Dan
strike

at

any age. In the

196

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

Miliman’s The

based

Way of the Peacefi~,l Warrior,

on

story of
gold medal

the

true

depression and went on to win a
depression, like the vast majority of
Olympics.
diseases, is not an age-related illness.
Diabetes is another disease commonly associated with the aging

an

athlete who

overcame

Remember that

in the

process, but

recent

research has shown that the

causes

of this disease

nothing to do with age. The most common type of diabetes has
been linked to a lack of exercise, poor diet, stress, and emotional
have

upheaval.
tributor
some

Recent research has

to

stress causes

with

By working

manage stress, in addition

cise, you

can not

Heart disease

accompanied

once

is

a

major

con

has known for

quite
community
blood-sugar fluctuations that can be
your healing system in learning to
incorporating healthy eating and exer

prevent but

only
was

to

stress

reverse

thought

to

this illness.

be

a

natural condition that

aging process. ‘While it is true that heart disease is
in the elderly, we have learned through the pioneer

the

more common

ing

that

diabetes. The medical

time that

harmful.

suggested

research of such

other factors in the

noteworthy scientists as Dr. Dean Ornish that
genesis of heart disease are far more important

than age. Factors such
love and intimacy, and

as

poor

diet,

repression

stress,

lack of exercise, lack of

of emotions have been shown

to

play a much greater role in the origin of this disorder. As noted ear
lier, in Dr. Ornish’s studies, the oldest patients with the most severe
showed the greatest reversal of disease and
improvement in their heart health. Learning to work with your heal
ing system, as Dr. Ornish’s methods have proven, can both prevent

heart disease

and

reverse

High

generally

heart disease,

blood pressure,

how old you are.
hypertension, is a disease commonly

no matter

or

asso

elderly and is erroneously attributed to the aging
Even
though high blood pressure is markedly absent in
process.
younger people, the cumulative effects of stress and poor diets, along
with a lack of exercise and the unhealthy suppression of such emo
tions as anger and resentment, cause the gradual narrowing and
thickening of the arteries, which leads to this disease. Methods for
reversing this condition center on diet and lifestyle factors, includ
ing learning how to relax, and releasing hostility and tension. More
than 30 years ago, Dr. Herbert Benson, Director of the Hyperten
sion Section at Beth Israel Hospital in Boston, in conjunction with
ciated with the

Aging, Long-Lastrng Health,

and Your

Harvard Medical School,

proved

lower and

197

Healing System

that relaxation and meditation

substantially
high blood pressure. Support
ing your healing system by practicing stress management and incor
porating other healthy dietary and lifestyle measures can help
could

reverse

prevent and reverse this condition.
Parkinson’s disease is another neurological condition associated

with the

elderly and believed to be caused by a specific biochemical
deficiency in the brain. However, Parkinson’s symptoms may occur in
younger people, such as Michael J. Fox, whose challenges with this
disease
from

are

well known.

trauma to

Many young Parkinson patients

the brain,

are

under

stress,

or

have suffered

have abused

drugs.

Parkinson’s also flares up during periods of stress and emotional
upheaval. If caught early, Parkinson’s may be prevented and managed

help improve blood flow to the
brain, stress management, and other mind-body methods aimed at
restoring balance to the nervous system and strengthening the healing
system. Again, this disease is not reserved for the elderly, but can occur
by proper diet,

in anyone

Stroke

affects the
alone is
cause

to

at

natural modalities that

any age, and it

can

be

a

can

be treated with the

crippling and disabling condition

same

methods.

that

associate stroke with the

commonly
aging process

elderly. However, to
key risk factors and underlying conditions that

overlook the

stroke, which in

most

cases

are

related

to

stress,

diet, and

lifestyle. In fact, stroke is an uncommon condition in most develop
ing countries. Although several different mechanisms can result in
stroke, the most common is an underlying condition of persistent,
uncontrolled high blood pressure, not old age. Stroke is also com
monly caused by constant irregular heartbeats, known as arrhythmias,
which

create

blood-flow disturbances that

the brain. Stroke,

can cause

of its

small blood clots

regardless
underlying causes, is
entirely preventable. Working with the healing system, a person with
normal blood pressure who watches his or her weight, exercises regu
larly, drinks fluids, manages stress, and participates in the healthy
release and expression of emotions will most certainly be successful in
avoiding this condition. And even with strokes that already have
occurred, successful rehabilitation is often possible thanks to the heal
ing system, which is able to work with the nervous system to help
transfer information from the damaged side of the brain to the other
side, bringing life back to previously paralyzed limbs.
to

pass

to

198

Your

Remaining
Stretching
The axiom “Move it

to

People

tend

to

and

they

tend

so

Flexible As You

Age

Support Your Healing System

lose it”

or

in the universe, and it

Extraordinary Healing System

seems to

certainly applies

slow down and become
to move

be
to

fundamental

a

the health of

sedentary

more

less. This lack of

stiffness, much like what happens when

principle

our
as

they

movement can

rust sets

into

an

bodies.
age,

lead

to

unused,

neglected machine. The stiffness can lead to pain, which in turn
discourages further movement. A vicious cycle perpetuates itself,
leading to immobility and disability, not just of the joints and limbs,
but also of the internal organs. When you stop moving, your heal
ing system weakens, and life expectancy diminishes. To avoid these
consequences, gently but persistently stretching the various muscles
in your body is important.
Stretching keeps your joints mobile and ensures that your body
will remain flexible as you age. For this reason, stretching is one of the
most important things you can do to support your healing system and
promote long-lasting health. Like a coconut tree in a hurricane, if
your body is flexible, it can better endure adverse forces of stress and
trauma as you age. If you were a dog or a cat, you would instinctively
stretch every time you got up from sleep. All mammals and vertebrates
instinctively stretch. Nothing else is as natural and beneficial for your
healing system and body as stretching.

Chronic Disease
A
One

while he

Blessing

in

Disguise

being interviewed, Sir William Osler, one of
the most famous physicians of the twentieth century, was asked the
secret to longevity. He gave an answer that surprised everyone: “Get
a chronic disease, and learn to take good care of it!”
How could the secret of long-lasting health and longevity ever
be found in having a chronic disease? To have a chronic disease and
at

day

the

same

was

time be able

contradiction. What
up with this

was

enigmatic

extend your life span sounds like a total
on Sir William Osler’s mind when he came

to

statement?

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

199

Healing System

In his greater wisdom and glory, Dr. Osler went on to clarify what
he meant. He explained that having a chronic disease is really a bless

ing in disguise because it forces you to pay closer attention to
body than you would normally do. In so doing, you benefit all
of your

body,

further

went on to

body

and

becomes

so

your overall health

your

parts

actually can be improved.

He

that when you have a chronic disease, your
sensitive, vulnerable, and demanding, and this

explain

more

makes you a better “listener.” You become more aware of your body,
and you can more effectively identify what causes flare-ups of your

disease, whether toxins
ing substances, stress

in the environment,

unhealthy foods, irritat
or
upheaval, or other offensive
factors. In the process, you have the opportunity to learn how to
avoid these factors and lessen the intensity or frequency of the flareups. You also have the opportunity to discover how imbalances were
created in your body to cause the disease in the first place. These
imbalances may have been caused by unconscious, self-destructive
habits and tendencies, as well as by unhealthy thoughts and attitudes.
With chronic disease, you have the opportunity to learn how to undo
the damage, reverse the disease process, and cooperate with your heal
ing system to restore your body to its natural state of health. Doing
this requires that you learn to nurture, and be kind and gentle to,
your body, exploring ways to fulfill its needs and treat it better.
Having a chronic disease can teach you how to become your
own best caregiver, your own full-time doctor, so to speak. And as
you learn to cooperate with your healing system in your mission of
returning to a natural state of health and wellness, your healing
system can help you remain healthy, functional, and symptom free
for the rest of your life. This is the hidden meaning behind Sir
William Osler’s statement that the key to longevity is to get a
chronic disease and learn to take good care of it.
In contrast to this approach, as soon as they are diagnosed with
chronic
a
disease, many people give in to fear, negative thinking, and
despair. This response only reinforces the disease process and is a
sure recipe for an early demise. Even well-meaning doctors often
unknowingly support this pessimistic attitude. The following story
illustrates the point.
A man I knew was suspected of having prostate cancer. His
doctor ordered

tests

to

emotional

confirm that he had

cancer,

and the

tests

200

Your

back

Extraordinary Healing System

On his first doctor’s visit after the

diagnosis was
established, this man asked his doctor whether he should quit smok
ing. To his astonishment, his doctor replied, “At this point, what’s
the use?” With his doctor’s negative attitude, he left the office and
immediately plunged into a deep depression. Even though the
doctor didn’t say it in exactly these words, what he heard was “It is
too late to do anything at this stage. Face the facts. You are going to
came

positive.

die.” Six weeks later, the

man

died.

important not to deny the reality of an illness; at the same
more important not to become passive or depressed, or to
to the popular pessimistic notions about what will happen

It is

time, it is

give
to

in

you

as

you become

more

ill. As the late Norman Cousins used

to

say, “Don’t deny the diagnosis, but defy the verdict!” Because of the
connection between your mind and your healing system, remaining

optimistic,

even

when the odds appear

to

be stacked

against

you, is

crucial.

According to Dr. Osler’s wisdom and experience, even if you
diagnosed with diabetes, or heart disease, or any other
chronic condition, it is possible for you to live to be 120 years
old. If you watch your diet, regularly exercise, practice stress manage
ment, and use other methods and strategies that cooperate with your
healing system, you can learn to positively influence your body’s
have been

internal environment and

improve your overall health.
be able

If you

are cur

to reduce your
rently taking medications, you may gradually
dependence on them and quite possibly get off them altogether. In
my own practice, I have seen this happen quite frequently.
If you are sufficiently motivated, and you don’t give in to pes
simism and despair, a chronic disease can direct and guide you
toward a much healthier lifestyle that supports your healing system
and improves your overall health. In so doing, the disease can enable
you to enjoy long-lasting health. Seen from this perspective, a
chronic disease can actually be a blessing in disguise.
I’d like to make an additional point in support of Dr. Osler’s
wisdom. There is a saying, “You don’t miss your water until your well
runs dry.” In my own experience, I have seen that many people do not
honor or value their health unless they are at immediate risk of losing
it. In this regard, contracting a chronic, life-threatening disease can
serve as a much-needed wake-up call. When you realize your life is on

and Your

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

the line and you are
become motivated

With this

clarity

to

and

amazing how quickly you can
quality of your health and life.

here forever, it’s

improve

sense

changes

constructive

ing,

not

201

Healing System

the

of urgency; it is often easier
in your diet,

lifestyle,

make sweep
and personal habits
to

strengthen and enhance the work of your healing system. When
you live your life fully, with the awareness that being alive is truly a
blessing, privilege, and unique opportunity, you begin to realize the
that

importance of your health and your responsibility to take care
yourself. ‘When you participate in healthful, wholesome activities
that support your healing system, your overall health improves, and
the prospects for greater longevity increase significantly.

critical
of

As you learn
as

your ticket

fact,

many

nesses

take better

to

to

a

longer

of yourself, your illness

can serve

productive life. In
overcome chronic, life-threatening ill
declared that their illnesses were gifts,

who have

people

care

and

have looked back and

happier,

without which their lives would have

more

never

been transformed for

the better.

And who is

to

say that

once

you have

a

chronic disease you are
to Dr. Dean Ornish’s

stuck with it? Since. Dr. Osler’s time, in addition
studies that
are now

proved heart disease can be reversed, many other studies
showing similar possibilities for diabetes, arthritis, asthma,

multiple sclerosis,

cancer,

and many other diseases. The

same

mecha

nisms that

cause disease processes to occur in the first place can be
reversed and eliminate the disease from your body. If you are currently

health

problem, the sooner you adopt an active role in
cooperating with your healing system, the faster you
be back on the road to long-lasting health.

plagued by

a

supporting

and

can

heal and

Memory Loss and Your
Healing System As You Age
A

simple

more

fact of living is that,

information than

they

as people age, their brains accumulate
need. Most people who age and have

trouble with their memories suffer from

overload, otherwise known

as

useless facts, memories, incidents,
tion in their heads, stored up

a

simple

case

“brain clutter.” There
or

over a

other trivial

of information

just too many
pieces of informa
are

lifetime, and all these details slow

202

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

down the

quality of their brainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to process information and
function efficiently. Although occasionally real organic or physical
causes exist for memory loss or brain dysfunction, such as impaired
blood flow

to

the brain

chemical imbalances in the blood, in my
overwhelming majority of memory-loss and brain-

the

or

experience,
dysfunction experiences are not the result of organic causes.
The dangers of memory loss and brain dysfunction are
can cause

disorientation and confusion, which lead

which

iety,

burden the

can

interactions that

we

healing

system

to stress

through

the

that

they

and

anx

mind-body

have discussed earlier in this book. If

a

chronic

physical disease is also already present, it can further jeopardize your
health by interfering with the work of your healing system.
Many people who develop memory problems as they age con
tribute to their own difficulties by hanging on to memories and
pieces of outdated information that no longer serve their best inter
ests. For one reason or another, they are afraid to move forward with
their lives, remaining stuck in the past and living their lives as if the
best times were behind them. People who do this are closing the
door to future experiences that may be wonderfully uplifting and
enlightening. As their memory continues to fail them, they become
more and more frightened, stressed, and anxious, and their brain
function deteriorates further. This combination can become terribly
unsettling and disorienting to their mental health and well-being.

Tips

for

Improving Memory

and Brain Function

Taking an active role in preserving, maintaining, and restoring your
very important mental health and well-being is essential. In fact,
your survival depends on it. You can take definite actions to coop
erate with your healing system in improving your
memory and brain
function as you age. The following key steps, while not all-inclusive,
can serve as a starting point in this process:
D

Make

you have

investigated the possibility of underlying
organic causes, including chemical imbalances in the blood or
your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal environment that may be interfering with
sure

your brain function.

family
o

doctor for

a

Doing

this may necessitate

a

visit

to

your

checkup.

Clear your mind of unnecessary

pieces

of information, includ

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

203

Healing System

ing phone numbers, facts, figures, memories,
do
o

not serve

If you

cannot

recall

donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

important,

or

experiences

that

your best interests.
a

piece of

struggle,

strain,

information that you feel is
fight. Relax, breathe, calm

or

your mind, and let go. If the information is really important, it
will eventually come back to you. Your memory functions best
when your mind is calm and relaxed, not when you are upset,

o

anxious.

tense,

or

Make

sure

are

your diet is

healthy

drinking enough
unhealthy substances

other
o

Avoid

and wholesome, and that you
excess caffeine, alcohol, and

fluids. Avoid

excess

medications

that

negatively

affect your brain.

medications that may interfere with

or

your memory.
o

Make

sure

shown

you

are

improve

to

getting enough
blood flow

to

exercise. Exercise has been

the brain, which

improves

brain function and memory.
o

nervous

mind is
o

system calm and
alert and can

more

concentrate

better.

Avoid emotional
which

o

techniques to keep your brain and
relaxed. A naturally calm and relaxed

Practice stress-management

upheaval, including anger and
compromises clarity and clouds thinking.

Experiment

with natural

supplements

such

as

resentment,

gingko

biloba and

gotu cola, which have been shown to improve blood flow to the
brain; these herbs can improve memory and brain function.
Make

they will not
already may be taking.
o

sure

Consider

trying other

conflict with other medications you

natural methods,

therapy, acupuncture, yoga, tai chi,
complementary therapies.

and

including cranial-sacral
other gentle, non-inva

sive,

Advantages of Aging
and Long-Lasting Health
As you advance in years, and whenever you begin to doubt your intrin
sic worth, go to your local liquor store and ask to see its selection

204

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

and

price list of fine wines. You will notice that the older wines are the
expensive. Like a bottle of fine vintage wine, your net worth and
value also increase as you age. Aging includes a number of advantages;
proudly and nobly embrace them. Old age is a time to look forward
to, and long-lasting health will ensure that you can enjoy it more fully.
most

For

example,

in the

aboriginal

culture of Australia,

more

than

40,000 years old, the elder members are regarded as the wisest and most
powerful of all souls, and their people afford them the greatest respect.
The culture relies upon their wisdom and experience to guide the abo
rigines through difficult times, to preside over disputes and to help
settle differences, and
matters,

to

be available for consultation in all

including those of a domestic, political,

In the Buddhist

or

important

spiritual

nature.

tradition, elder Buddhists

are looked upon as
In many other cultures

the

highest-ranking members of the society.
throughout the world, the elder system is still intact. People are hon
ored and valued for their advancing years, not banished, punished,
and shamed, as they often are in the West.

surprising as it may sound, getting older also confers many
advantages. For example, when you are older, you have more
experience, more knowledge, and more wisdom about your health.
You are more familiar with your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strengths, weaknesses, and
limitations, and you have probably discovered the virtues of modera
tion. Additionally, over the years that you have aged, you have learned
how to feed and nourish your body; how to exercise it; how much
water, sleep, and rest it requires; how it tolerates temperature changes;
and what kind of clothes it requires to keep warm for each season. In
the words of Plato, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gives me great pleasure to converse with the
aged. They have been over the road that all of us must travel and know
where it is rough and difficult and where it is level and easy~â&#x20AC;?
As you age, you possess a greater ability to avoid illness and injury.
You learn to be more careful and safe in all activities, from walking
and climbing stairs to driving. You become better at physical and
mental energy conservation for your health and well-being. For exam
As

health

ple,

when you

were

young, you may have

thought

that you

were

if you were a superman or superwoman. As a conse
quence, you may have made some costly mistakes. When you are

invincible,
older,
erate.

as

you tend

not to

When you

are

beso foolish,

older, you

to

are

be

more

ruled

thoughtful

not

so

and delib

much

by

your

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

hormones

or

passions

as

and Your

Healing System

205

by your common sense, tempered discipline,

and your ability to listen to your body and act benevolently on its
behalf. When you are older, you tend not to become so swept away or

preoccupied with the affairs of the world, but, rather, to become more
self-entertaining and self-contained. This process directs your mental
energies inward, increasing your bodily awareness, and improving
your ability to listen to and cooperate with your healing system.
As you age, you also tend to become more patient and tolerant of
pain and physical discomfort, which increases your endurance. This is
apparent in the Olympic games in which, in the endurance events such
the marathon race, the top athletes may be as much as 20 years older
than athletes who compete in other events such as the sprints. In fact,
many octogenarian marathon runners are active in the world today,

as

and many senior athletes are still competing on the masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level in
other sports such as golf, tennis, swimming, surfing, water skiing, and

skiing. These elder athletes demonstrate that, regardless of their
ages, they can keep their healing systems vibrant and youthful, stay
competitive, and enjoy long-lasting health by remaining active.
With all of these advantages to aging, we should look upon old
age as a time of maximum health and enjoyment. By understanding
all of the factors that positively influence the performance of our
healing systems, and then putting these factors into practice, we can
successfully enjoy a superior state of health and a vibrant, active life
for the rest of our days.
snow

The Power of

Laughter

and

a

Sense of Humor

previous chapters, we have talked about all of the factors that can
improve the performance of your healing system. One of the most
important of these factors, if not the most important, appears to be
a sense of humor. I say this with good reason.
I have met many people who have lived well into old age and
beyond, sometimes reaching 100 years or more, who defied the
principles of what most experts would consider a healthy life. Many
of these people had poor diets, drank alcohol or smoked excessively,
did not exercise regularly, were overweight, and, strictly from a
health standpoint, did just about everything else wrong. However,
In

206

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

the persons among this group were rare who didn’t also possess a
keen sense of humor, an extraordinary ability to allow most difficul

ties,

negative

comments,

backs. Most of these

life, they had

and adverse situations

people

understood that,

to

to

roll

right off their

get the

most out

of

have fun.

to

miss the boat in this

Many good people

regard. They

take their

health and their life

too seriously. One famous health expert even
went so far as to say, “Seriousness is a disease more dangerous than
cancer!” Being serious all the time creates tension in the body, which
can

the

drain the life force

out

“All work and

saying,

of your

no

play

haven’t heard, and what is also
make

can

who

people
at

Jack

a

sick

cannot

serious risk for

famous
A

and

by

that “All work and

true, is

no

play

research studies suggest that
relax, have fun, and laugh are

puppy.” Many

take the time

developing

a

to

illness. Dr. Bernie

major

Siegel,

a

surgeon, tells a story that helps illustrate this point.
ran six miles every day for 25 years. He never went to

cancer

man

parties,

system. We’ve all heard
Jack a dull boy.” What we

healing

makes

bed after 10:00

never went to

was a

One

vegetarian.

this sudden

turn

of

he

day,

he

PM,

never

suddenly

drank

died. He

or

smoked,

upset
that when he got to the Pearly Gates
God and demanded an immediate explana
was so

events

went straight up to
tion for this apparent injustice.

“What the hell

are

you

doing,

God?” the

man

asked. “I’ve

run

every day for the past 25 years, never touched alcohol or tobacco,
gone to bed early, and eaten only vegetables. I’ve worked hard my

whole life

just to remain healthy and live long, and you had to spoil
everything by bringing me here. What’s your point in doing this?”
the

man

asked.

“My point
to

is that you

basically

blew it!” God said. “You

forgot

have fun and

were

enjoy your life, which were the reasons why you
created!” He exclaimed. “And since you failed to learn your

lessons this time, I’m

adjustment!”

sending

to

Hell for

an

attitude

cried God.

“What will I do there?”
“For

you back

queried

the

man.

you’ll have to run six miles every day, go to bed
before 10:00 PM each night, and eat only vegetables,” God declared.
He continued, “Next time, try to enjoy your life, and come back
starters,

when your attitude is

a

little better!”

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

Dr.

things

Siegel

goes

not out

to

quality

207

Healing System

make the

of the fear of

the overall

improve

on

and Your

point

dying,

that it is

but rather

of your life.

important

out

Certainly

to

of the desire

there

do
to

nothing

was

wrong with what the man was doing to improve his health, but his
attitude and reason for doing these things were wrong. Again, the

goal

of

long-lasting health
quality of your

is

not

just

to

live

longer,

but

to

improve

the overall

life in the process. If you are not having
fun and enjoying your life, you are missing the boat. Just remember
the French woman introduced earlier in the book, who lived to the
age of 122 and

who, when interviewed about the

longevity; replied

that the

wrinkle

only thing

she knew

was

secrets

that “I

of her

only have

my entire body, and I’m sitting on it!”
Almost nothing in the world can keep your healing system
strong, vibrant, and healthy as cultivating and refining the ability
one

laugh

on

as

to

laugh often, vigorously, and—what is even more power
ful—to frequently share raucous belly laughter with your friends or
family. Bob Hope passed away at the age of 100 years. I believe he
was trying to beat George Burns’ age when he died. It is not an acci
dent that these two famous comedians, who earned their living with
a sense of humor and making other people laugh, lived so long.
When you are laughing, having fun, and enjoying life, you are
releasing tension and creating positive physiology within your body
that strengthens and fortifies your healing system. Laughter kills
pain by triggering the release of powerful neurochemicals from the
brain, such as endorphins and enkephalins, which, as we noted ear
lier, are naturally occurring opiates much stronger than morphine.
Laughter simultaneously stimulates the release of other powerful sub
stances that boost the performance of your healing system. Some
scientists have defined laughter as tantamount to “internal jogging,” in
that all the health benefits of jogging, such as improving the strength
of your heart and circulatory system, can also be found in laughter.
.

.

.

to

Doing WhatYou Love
Contributes to a Long and Healthy
Upon

his retirement

animator for Walt

at

the age of 89 years,

Disney

Studios

was

an

Life

innovative artist and

recently recognized

for his

208

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

outstanding contribution to the field for more than 65 years. When
asked how he managed to keep going all those years, and what moti
vated him, he replied, “You gotta love your work!”
When you love what you do, every day is a day of play and
enjoyment. When you work at a job that you love, it doesn’t feel like
work.

Loving your work is the healthiest tonic in the world for your
body’s healing system as it is injected with a continuous supply of
dynamic, positive, mental and emotional energy every single day of
your life. By the time you reach old age, this positive energy pays off
in dividends. The following stories help illustrate this point.
Pop Proctor was a well-known surfer from California who fell in
love with the sport when he picked it up at the rather late age of 50.
He surfed for

more

than 40 years and retired from

surfing at the age

of 97. He died

at the age of 99, and it was rumored that he died so
young because he retired from surfing too soon.
Albert Schweitzer once told his hospital staff that “I have no

intention of

have

no

dying,

need

to

so

die,

long

so

as

I

things. And if I do things, I
a long, long time.” Dr. Schweitzer,

can

I will live

do

who received the Nobel Prize in 1952, remained active until his final

days;

he lived until the age of 90.

Mrs. Minami

was

years of age when I
meal and enjoyed

which she
me

met

a

Japanese-Hawaiian

her. She drank

a

perfect regularity
absolutely adored, every day,

woman

cup of hot

who

water

was

after each

She worked in her
rain

or

101

garden,

shine. When she left

for another doctor because her insurance had

changed,

she

was

103 and still

Harry

going strong.
Lieberman was an

elderly, 78-year-old

man

who had been

alone in

a nursing home since the
age of 75, silently awaiting his
death. To help pass the time, every day at noon he would meet his
partner for a game of chess. One day, unbeknownst to him, his part

died. When

showed up at the usual time the next day for
his chess match, his partner didn’t show. The staff who was informed
of his partner’s passing and concerned about the effects on Harry
ner

didn’t

want to

Harry

break the

news to

him

so

suddenly. They told Harry his

partner had become ill and had to go to the hospital. They asked
Harry if he would like to attend an art class instead, just for the day.

Harry was shuttled off to
was

seated

at a

the

table and handed

nursing
a

blank

home’s

art

class, where he

piece of paper,

some

col

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

ored

paints,

and

a

and Your

209

Healing System

brush. He had

never

held

a

brush before in his

life, and he felt totally awkward. The teacher announced that the
class

paint anything the participants wanted.
While he was holding onto the brush, Harry’s mind drifted back
to the days when he was a boy growing up in a village in his coun
try of birth, Poland. Slowly, he began to paint what his mind saw.
At the end of class, the teacher looked at this painting, thanked him
for his attendance, and encouraged him to return the following day.
The following day, however, Harry didn’t want to paint another
picture. Instead, he looked forward to resuming his chess game with
his partner. At the appointed hour, however, when Harry sat down
at

assignment

was to

the chess board and waited for his

unteers came

and informed

Harry

friend,

one

of the young vol
was still in the

that his friend

hospital. She encouraged him to please attend the art class one more
time. Harry reluctantly agreed.
Now, for the second time in as many days, Harry found himself
sitting down with a brush, a blank piece of paper, and some paints.
Today’s assignment: “Paint anything you want.” Again, Harry
drifted off to his childhood days and slowly began painting.
At the close of the class, the teacher again came by Harry’s table,
saw his painting, and made an encouraging comment. He told
Harry he wanted him to attend the evening art class at the local
junior college. The teacher told Harry that at the very least this
would be

a

chance

to

get

out

and

meet some new

people, especially

young, attractive college girls. Hesitant at first, Harry finally agreed.
In the evening of the next day, a van picked Harry up and took

him several miles away to the art class at the junior college, where he
ushered inside with more than 40 students, most of them young

was

setting was much different
atmosphere of his nursing home.
For the third time in as many days, Harry found himself seated
at a desk with a brush, a blank piece of paper, and paints. The
assignment: “Paint anything you want.” Once again, Harry’s mind
drifted off to his past as he dipped his brush into the paints and
began applying strokes to the paper.

enough

to

be his

grandchildren.

This

from the dull, sedate, and somber

At the close of the

class, the teacher walked around the

critique each student’s work. When
he paused for a moment. Then he

he

came

made

a

room to

Harry’s painting,
surprising comment.
to

210

Your

“Would you be
asked Harry.

Harry was

to

as

dumbfounded.

The teacher

replied,

be

you’re going
Harry thought
to

kind

so

a

Extraordinary Healing System

this

autograph
“Why?”

painting

for me?” he

he asked.

“Because I have

a

feeling

that

someday

famous artist.”

to

himself, “Right, but first I’ll be the

next

pres

ident of America!”
For the

eventually

next

25 years,

world, painting village

Lieberman

Harry

established himself as
scenes

one

painted every day and
preeminent artists in the

of the

from his childhood life in Poland,

along with stories from the Old Testament. To this day, his works are
displayed prominently in books, museums, and galleries all over the
world. Doing what he loved to do, Harry Lieberman lived past the
age of 103.
Do what you love, and love what you do. This is the essence of
allowing the creative spirit within you to flourish and express itself,

producing long-lasting

health and

a sense

of well-being

as

byprod

If you suppress or deny this spirit, it will wither up and die,
and your health will surely follow. Suppressing or denying your
ucts.

inherent creative instincts,

what you love, or not loving
what you do, will drain your life force and render your healing
system powerless. When this happens, you will become sick.
not

doing

Many people are allowed to pursue their dreams and are encour
aged to follow their hearts from an early age. These are the lucky
ones. Others, like Harry Lieberman, discover their true joy and
pas
sion when they are at an advanced age. However, regardless of your
age, the health-enhancing benefits of putting your heart into what
you are doing are undeniable. Organizing your life around doing
what you love is one of the wisest and
strengthen and fortify your healing system,

tunity

enjoy long-lasting

to

most

effective ways

allowing you

the oppor

health.

Celebrate Your Years and Enhan ceYourHeaUngSystem~

Old age is

a

time for celebration and

is the time of
to

see

enjoying the fruits of your labors. It

your”second childhood?’

beauty

in

a

chance

simple, everyday things,

and

to
a

regain your innocence,

time to

play

to

and

enjoy

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

Old age is

yourself.

fundamental

a

and Your

underlying reality

enjoyment of

the

healing system
realize this goal.

then

we

and

peacefully

have found ways

they

have learned

this earth, there is

depart

must

people

so

to

maximize

fortifying
to

gently

your

help

active lives for

a

you

long,

without any

cooperate with their

strengthen
denying

not

buy

to

reason

no

can

I know

and

to

you

and

policy

have advanced in years. While Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m

they

as

all

you age

Strengthening

years.

leave this world

they

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing systems,
them

as

healthy, pain-free, disease-free,

These

suffering.

or

your health

golden

your

live

Many people
long time, and

keep

know that love is the

to

in all of life. With all of this to look forward

you age is the best insurance

as

pain

love, be loved, and

time to

to, it is critical that you

211

Healing System

and

that

fortify

someday

into the false

notion that you have to become sick and disabled before it is your time to

leave. When you work with your

ing

health, and stay
From my

practical tips
system

as

healthy,

research and

own

to

be

healing system,

until your final

to

can

enjoy long-last

days.

experience,

particularly helpful

you

I have found the

and

strengthen

fortify

following

the

healing

you age:

principles, exercises, and techniques

~

Practice the

~

Drink

~

Eat

~

Get

~

Practice

good

~

Practice

stress

~

Relax

~

Do

~

Think young. Remember that you

~

Take the time

~

Learn

~

Develop

~

Do what you love

~

Stay

plenty

plenty

described in this book.

of fluids.

of fruits and

adequate

vegetables.

fiber in your diet.

bowel

hygiene.

management.

regularly.

breathing

to

exercises.

to

plan

for

a

bright

are

only

as

old

as

you think you

future.

be spontaneous.
a

active.

flexible mindset. Avoid
to

do.

being

too set in

your ways.

are.

212

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

O

Maintain

O

Stay

involved with hobbies and creative activities.

o

Be

nonconformist.

o

Be adventuresome and try

O

Spend

o

If you get bored, learn

o

Sing.

o

Dance

o

Avoid

o

Cultivate and nourish

0

Don’t foster

o

If you

are

o

Spend

time outdoors.

o

Surround

o

Have fun, and remember

o

Enjoy comedy

and

keep

o

Don’t take life

too

seriously.

o

Don’t take

o

Spend

a

viable social support system.

a

new

things.

time in nature.

and often,

regularly
getting

a

even

musical instrument

if you

paint.

alone.

loving relationships

with your

family

and friends.

resentment.

yourself

be active in social clubs.

or

with

yourself

time with

too

people

beauty.
smile and

to

a

laugh genuinely

from your heart.

attitude.

light-hearted

seriously.
who

are

busy

and involved in

doing something

with their lives.

o

Choose your friends and company

o

Don’t

o

Don’t do

O

Be

o

Take the time

°

Appreciate

waste

wisely.

your time.

things

true to

are

or

angry.

single, date,

meaningful

play

to

you don’t

your
to

sense

want to

do.

of purpose.

reflect

on

the

meaning

the fact that your life is

a

of life.

gift,

no matter

how difficult it has

been.
all the

o

Acknowledge

O

Honor the

dignity

0

Find

to

a

way

things

in life for which you have to be

of your soul.

give back

to

the world.

grateful.

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

~

Perform

form of

some

time with animals. If

Spend

~

Vow

~

Get up

~

Listen

~

Travel if you

to

do

least

at

early

to music

Write in

journal

~

Write poetry,

~

Wake up each

Don’t

to

inspires and uplifts

most

your

even

if

you’ve

play

each

bed

and be in the

pets.

day.

early

every

night.

you.
to

memorable

never

one or more

walk

or

go in

a new

direc

better

place

experiences.

done it before.

and tell the world that it is

morning

are

have

afford it and, if not, try

can

~

because you

morning, and go

that

day.

a

possible,

thing differently

one

every

tion every

a

here.

waste time

around

being

people

who don’t

inspire

you

or

uplift

spirits.

~

Read books and watch movies that

~

Read about

~

Keep

~

service that makes you feel

moment.

present

your

regular community

time with children; let them teach you how to

Spend

~

~

213

Healing System

inside.

good
~

and Your

people

connected

to

inspire

older than you who
your

Remember that if you

family, friends,

want to

have

and

uplift

active than you.

are more

and loved

a true

you.

ones.

friend, you have

to

be

a true

friend.
~

Listen

to

~

Find

way

a

music that stirs your heart and soothes your soul.
to

share your

unique talents, gifts, and experiences

with the

world.
~

Focus

~

Appreciate

~

Love

~

If you have faith in God

~

Make peace with your soul.

on

how you

can

do your part

to

make this world

how age has mellowed you and made you

yourself

and your life,
or a

even

if

higher

they

aren’t

little better.

better person.

perfect..

power, pray for

Forgive yourself

a

a

guidance

and peace.

for all you may have done

wrong.
~

Cry

when you

want to,

and don’t feel ashamed when you do.

214

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

=

0

Live from your heart.

Remember that your

system that

j~

can

keep

body
you

possesses

healthy through

Celebrate and honor your years

Living

Life

to

an

on

efficient and
a

intelligent healing

multitude of life’s

this earth, and

challenges.

enjoy your life!

the Fullest Until Your Final

Days

hope I haven’t given you the impression that you will live forever.
Although I do expect you to live long, stay healthy, and enjoy your
life, it would be irresponsible of me to try to deceive you into believ
ing that you can remain on this planet indefinitely. Land is a limited
commodity, and unfortunately, when it is our time to go, we have to
I

leave

to

make

room

for the

next

person. Even if you reach the age of

beyond, some day you will experience the process of
leaving your body as you depart this world. In many cultures around
the world, this process, known as death, is regarded as a natural and
sacred event, no less important than birth. In these cultures, death is
seen as a release and a blessing, the final chapter of a person’s earth
bound life in a story that would otherwise be incomplete. Further, in
these cultures, death is seen to be not merely an end, but, rather, a new
beginning. As a result, the anniversary of the day a person dies is usu
ally remembered and celebrated even more than the person’s birthday.
The benefit of accepting that you will not live on this earth for
ever is that you no longer have to live with the tension the fear of
100,120,

death

or

creates.

The acceptance

creates a

natural

state

your healing system works best when you
relaxed state, and so overcoming your fear of death

you know,

your

vitality

Death is

and contributes

of relaxation. As

naturally
greatly improves

are

in

a

long-lasting health.
experience we should welcome,

to

initi
certainly not an
before
need
its
it
not
or
nonetheless,
time;
prematurely,
glorif~,’
be the difficult, painful, miserable experience it is commonly held to
be in our society. Death can be a loving, special occasion, a pro
foundly healing experience for all those who’ve come to witness the
sacred departure of a uniquely created soul. A good death can act as
a powerful affirmation and a special blessing to those left behind.
ate

and Your

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

215

Healing System

Such deaths, rather than

producing tension and prolonging the
myth that death is a painful, horrible ordeal, contribute to overall
healing by reinforcing the peacefulness, beauty, and serenity of this
natural life experience. Such an attitude collectively strengthens and
fortifies the healing systems of the individuals within the culture and
society, and contributes to long-lasting health in those individuals.
A good death, which can be likened to childbirth, requires
preparation. For example, it is well known that mothers who have
not attended prenatal classes are usually poorly prepared for labor,
and they often suffer far more complications, pain, and trauma than
those who are well prepared. The same is true in death. In an ill-pre
pared-for death, far more complications, pain, and trauma often
occur than is necessary. Such an experience reinforces the notion
that death is

a

horrible

event

and

creates

fear in those who witness

cycle perpetuates itself, influencing societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
perception of death, and creating unnecessary
and
negative outcomes in the process. Ironically, the best way
worry
to prepare for a good death is to have a good life.
It is possible to enjoy your final days on this earth and have a
positive experience of death. How successful you are at doing this is
strongly influenced by your ability to work with your healing system
and remain healthy throughout your life, which is largely deter
mined by the choices you make every day. Realize that your time on
earth is limited, and then live your life as if it were a privilege, as
such

a

death. A vicious

generally

if each

fearful

moment counts.

example,

a

cowboyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

with his horse. The

Focus

dream is

to

probability

what you love to do. For
die with his boots on and be buried

on

of

doing

realizing

this dream is increased

saddle up and ride off across the plains
day
with his trusty steed. The same is true for you and any number of
activities, hobbies, and vocations that you love to do and that are
with each

near

and dear

that he is

to

can

your heart. The

more

you

can

organize

your life

around

depart
In

doing what you love to do, the better the chance that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll
this world in an uplifted state, without any sorrows or regrets.
india, where

I have traveled

frequently,

I have

met

many

people in their eighties, nineties, and older who are active, healthy,
respected members of their communities, and who enjoy their lives,
totally free from the fear of death and unconcerned about their
advancing age. Further, the Sanskrit literature, which dates back

216

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

several thousand years, is full of historical accounts of accomplished
souls who could accurately predict the time of their death and leave
their bodies

willfully, peacefully, and with courage.
Similarly, in Japan, Samurai warriors have traditionally greeted
each new day with the thought, “Today is a good day to die!”
Although this statement might initially appear to be fatalistic, the
philosophy actually enriches the warriors’ lives and improves their
health. By facing their mortality this way, acknowledging that today
could be their last day on this earth, they can live without fear and
remain

the Samurai creed permeates almost every aspect of
society, it is not surprising to see that, on average, people

Japanese
in Japan live

much

Understanding

longer

than

people

in the West.

that you have tremendous control

over

your life

circumstances and your health is the best way to prepare for a good
death. It is also the best way to enjoy your life. Like the cowboy,
Samurai warrior, you can enjoy long-lasting health, and
then, when it is your time, exit this world with peace and serenity,
courage and conviction, grace and style. When you learn to work

yogi,

or

with your healing system, you can enjoy long-lasting health, and,
when the time comes, experience a peaceful and pain-free death.

Closing Thoughts on Aging,
Long-Lasting Health, and Your Healing System
The boundaries for what is considered

be old age

are continually
70-year-old man, by today’s standards, is now
viewed as still young. You can prolong and maintain youthful vigor
and health well into your eighties, nineties, and beyond if you work
at supporting and nourishing your healing system. Your attitude
about aging plays an important role in your longevity and influences
physiological mechanisms that can either accelerate or slow down
the aging process. If you develop poor health habits based on pes
simistic, negative attitudes, you stand a greater chance of becoming
ill and dying earlier. But if you are inspired to make the most of your
life and your extraordinary healing system, and you are motivated to

being expanded.

A

to

Aging, Long-Lasting Health,

and Your

217

Healing System

stay healthy, you can enjoy a long and fulfilling life. Maintain a pos
itive mental attitude and develop sound personal health habits, and
you will exude

of

a

spirit of youthfulness

remaining healthy

until your final

and understand that you

youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll

are on

and

improve your prospects
days. Accept your mortality

the earth for

a

limited time, and

fear of death. Cultivate

easily overcome a
attitude. Your healing system will benefit significantly,
tude will facilitate your goal of achieving long-lasting
more

a

relaxed

and your atti
health.

CHAPTER 8

The

Healing System

at

Work

Personal Stories of Extraordinary

Healing

pain, suffering, and illness every day of their
they tend to view life through a distorted lens
that sees disease as normal and health as abnormal. Serving as soci
ety’s appointed health experts, they are in reality disease experts. In
this capacity, doctors exert a profound influence on our way of
thinking, and so we have learned to be pessimistic, negative, and
octors

deal with

lives. Because of this,

fearful when it

comes to our

bodies.

Going beyond
probing deeper into the
miraculous workings of our bodies, however, we will discover a heal
ing system that can overcome nearly every affliction known to man.
We will discover that health and well-being are the rule, and illness
this distorted lens and

and disease

are

exceptions

to

the rule.

Many people with advanced, serious medical conditions get
they learn how to cooperate with their healing systems.
And although these cases may seem extraordinary, in fact, they are
quite ordinary~ When you understand that you have a healing
better when

system, you should expect healing, regardless of how overwhelm
ingly the odds may be stacked against you. When you or a loved one
is afflicted with

healing

an

illness

or

injury,

the real

occur?” but rather “When will

is “When you decide

to

question

healing

is

not

occur?” The

cooperate and work with your

“Will

answer

healing

220

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

system, you will get better and heal; the
faster you will heal!”

you do

sooner

this, the

I offer the

following stories to help you get to know your heal
better.
Because your healing system is within you, it can
ing system
be activated free of charge. It is ready to work for you “24/7,” and it
is your

powerful ally on
you acknowledge

most

asks is that

concerted effort

to

life’s

journey.

All your

its existence, listen

cooperate and work with,

not

to

healing

system

it, and make

against,

a

it.

Ronald’s

Story of
Extraordinary Healing
Ronald

Jenkins was 19 years of age and away at college. He was a
strapping picture of health, on a full athletic and academic scholar
ship, and he had never missed a day of school due to illness since he
was in kindergarten. Except for routine physical exams and immu
nizations, Ronald had
was

in the

life would

prime

was

a

break, Ronald awoke
the bathroom

ran

to

just

night

was

all

been

hospitalized.

He

good. Soon, however,

his

or

but

counselor
one

to

night

at

a

youth

camp

during

with intense abdominal

relieve himself.

Projectile

summer

pain.

He

diarrhea ensued,

many times that Ronald had to spend half the
the toilet. He began to feel feverish. He thought he might

once,

on

doctor

change.

While he

not

never seen a

of his life, and it

have contracted

a

so

case

of food

poisoning.

He drank

liquids

and

rested, thinking he would get better on his own. After one week,
however, his symptoms continued without any letup in intensity.
For the first time in his life, Ronald sought the help of a doctor.
The doctor

Ronald with

gastroenteritis and treated
him with rest, fluids, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory medicines.
After two weeks, however, there was still no improvement, so his
doctor referred him to a specialist. The specialist ordered blood tests,
X-rays, intestinal scans, and a colonoscopy, an exam in which a flexi

diagnosed

ble tube is inserted up the entire length of the large intestines. After
much deliberation and discussion, the doctors made the diagnosis of
Crohn’s disease,

large

a severe

intestines. Ronald

inflammatory condition of the small and
was placed on a strict protocol of strong

Your

Hearing System

at

221

Work

medications, including anti-inflammatories, antimicrobial agents
and corticosteroids, and a highly restricted diet.
Ronald didn’t do

continued, and he

so

well

on

this

regimen.

His

pain

and diarrhea

well, such as
developed
stiff and painful swollen joints. A strange, blister-type rash appeared
on his face. He was constantly nauseous and light-headed. The cor
ners of his mouth began to crack and bleed. Day by day, he felt
himself growing weaker, his vital life energy ebbing. He was forced
to

take

a

other symptoms,

soon

leave of absence from school and

parents. Fortunately, they
Ronald regain his health.

were

After six months, Ronald
His

weight

had fallen

to an

willing

appeared

move

to

to

do

be

all-time low of 104

as

back in with his

anything

on

death’s

pounds,

to

help

doorstep.

down from

weight of 180 pounds. His friends remarked that he
looked like a concentration-camp victim. His diarrhea had increased
to the point that he couldn’t sleep for more than 45 minutes at a

his normal

time before he would have

relieve himself. He had

no

to

get

out

appetite,

of bed and

run to

and his abdomen

the toilet
was

to

bloated

and full of gas. He forced himself to eat to stay alive, but he could
n’t keep his food in—everything that came in the front door was

immediately expelled through the back door.
In a desperate attempt to save Ronald’s life, his doctor sent him
to the nation’s top specialists in gastrointestinal diseases. After
reviewing his records and examining him, they all agreed Ronald’s
was one of the worst cases of Crohn’s disease they had ever seen. If
his life were to be spared, the consensus was that surgical removal of
his colon and a lifetime of immunosuppressive medications was
Ronald’s only option.
Ronald returned home to contemplate his fate. He became
extremely depressed, and even thought of suicide. Because he was
malnourished, he had to be fed through a large, intravenous catheter
inserted into a vein near his neck. This catheter, which could easily
become infected, became Ronald’s lifeline.
As Ronald

lay in bed wasting away, one of his father’s friends
suggested something simple but radical. He suggested that if Ronald
could regain the balance of natural flora in his intestines, he had a
good chance of restoring his health. He based this idea on recent
research that suggested that, in addition to the 500 good bacterial

222

Your

Extraordinary Heahng System

strains that reside in the human intestines, there may be many more
types of beneficial bacteria, perhaps up to 10,000 strains. He asked

Ronald

to

try several

vated for human

capsules a day
consumption; this

of

a

dirt culti

special hygienic

dirt contained many strains of

these beneficial bacteria.
At

first, Ronald

because he

was

taken aback

by
ready

the idea of eating dirt, but,

to try anything. After long
desperate, he was
reading, research, and discussions with his father and his
father’s friend, he realized that what was being proposed was a return
to the dietary habits of his ancestors. In those days, before pesticides
and artificial fertilizers, people often ate vegetables right out of the
fields, ingesting small amounts of beneficial soil organisms with
each bite, and, in the process, replenishing their natural intestinal
flora. When we think of cows’ digestive systems, and how their mul
was

hours of

tichambered stomachs

filled with many beneficial bacteria that
their food, this idea is not so radical.

help digest

The first

day,

are

Ronald took six

capsules of hygienic dirt (two at
a time, three times a day). The following morning, after his first
sound night’s sleep in a long time, Ronald felt his abdominal pain
lessen in intensity. For the first time since his illness began, he didn’t
awaken with a fever. Throughout the course of the next several days,
his diarrhea slowed in frequency and intensity. After several days, his
stools began to firm up. After one week, his appetite began to return
and he had his first normal bowel
Over the

next

several weeks,

as

sules of beneficial dirt, Ronald’s
continued
sores,

improve

to

energy

movement

When

year.

appetite
joint health, skin,

level, and attitude all improved,

weight was back up to 180
school, and he was completely well.
often views

a

to swallow the cap
and bowel movements

and normalize. His

months, his

Eating

in almost

he continued

well. After six

as

pounds,

mouth

he

was

back in

dirt flies in~ the face of conventional medicine, which
nature

work with

as

the enemy and the

cause

of

most

diseases.

healing systems, however, natural solutions
using beneficial organisms that are
normally found in healthy, hygienic soil was the secret ingredient
that ultimately cured his disease. Beneficial bacteria help in diges
tion, and they produce many valuable substances, such as vitamin
K, thus restoring balance to the intestines; consequently, they are
we

our

often work best. For Ronald,

Your

one

of the

ural

healing

important

most

was an

to

ways

cooperate with your

of

Story

nat

Extraordinary Healing

elderly woman who

lived in

a

community I regularly vis

ited in India. She had suffered from asthma since she
and she took medicines
a

body’s

system.

Rani’s
Rani

223

at Work

Healing System

regularly

cold, breathed dusty air,

or was

to

was a

little child,

control it. ‘Whenever she

under

caught
heavy stress, her asthma would

flare up. At these time, sometimes even her medicines would fail her,
and she would have to go to the hospital, where intravenous medica
tions and special breathing treatments were administered.

Having
to

been away for

find Rani in

a

very

a

long time,

I returned

precipitous condition.

to

Not

India

one

year

only

was

her

flaring up, but her feet, ankles, and abdomen were swollen.
She had not eaten for days, she could not get out of bed without
help, and she appeared to be on death’s doorstep.
asthma

‘When I examined Rani, I discovered shallow

feeble, irregular heart

lungs

and

belly,

nated in several

and

days.

rate
an

respirations,

a

and abnormal heart sounds, fluid in her

enlarged

These

were

liver. She told
all ominous

me

signs.

she hadn’t uri
I

suggested

she

hospitalized, even though her family couldn’t afford it.
In the hospital, after many examinations and investigations, the
doctors found that Rani was in congestive heart failure, her liver was
failing, and her kidneys were shutting down. She was told that noth
ing could be done for her. Rani was discharged from the hospital
with little hope of living more than a week or two. Her family pre
pared for her imminent death.
As a last-ditch effort to help Rani, I attempted to administer sev
eral very strong medicines I had brought with me from my hospital
back home in the U.S. for patients with serious, life-threatening con
ditions. One of these was lanoxin, a derivative of digitalis, used for
congestive heart failure. Another was lasix, a strong diuretic (water
pill) used to remove fluid from the lungs, feet, and abdomen. I also
hoped the lasix might flush her kidneys and restore their function. In
addition, I brought the latest, strongest bronchodilator and corticos
be

teroid inhalers

to

open up her

airways

in

an

attempt

to

treat

her

224

Your

Extraordinary Healing System

asthma. But several

days on these medications only saw her condition
going downhill fast.
One morning, when I was doing my usual rounds, I saw an
Indian gentleman sitting down and talking with Rani as I
approached her home. The family told me he was Dr. Vinod, a
renowned doctor who practiced Ayurveda, India’s ancient folk med
icine. Ayurveda uses primarily natural medicines to help restore
health to the body. Rani’s family had called Dr. Vinod to see
whether there was anything he could do to help her.
Dr. Vinod did something that I had never seen before, and
which went completely against my medical training. He stopped all
her medicines, went out back behind Rani’s home, plucked a leaf
from a particular tree, and placed it on her abdomen. He restricted
her diet to three glasses a day of pure goat’s milk. Every day a fresh
leaf was applied. This treatment seemed primitive to me, and I was
extremely skeptical that anything good would come of it.
However, within several days, Rani began sitting up in bed under
her own power and eating full meals. Her breathing slowly returned
to normal, the swelling in her feet and abdomen were
gone, and,
within a week, she was walking around the grounds outside of her
home. Within three weeks, her breathing became normal, and she
regained almost all of her previous strength. If I hadn’t seen her recov
worsen.

She

ery with my

Rani’s

was

own

eyes, I wouldn’t have believed it.

than

lesson in

humility for me, a U.S.physician
supposedly possessed the latest, most
up-to-date education and high-tech medicines.
More importantly, it showed me how instituting the right treat
ment, even a ridiculously simple one, and even in the face of an
apparently hopeless situation, can work with the healing system to
help restore the body’s natural state of health and vigor.
case was more

trained

Pierre’s
Pierre

a

who

Story

of

Extraordinary Healing

adventurous Frenchman I

during my earlier trav
els in India. The son of a royal French family, he had rebelled and
run
away from his homeland. Pierre had hitchhiked through
Greece, Turkey, Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan before he reached India.
was an

met

Your

Healing System

Eventually,

he built

a

hut

on

the beach in Goa,

of India, and settled into

western coast

ate,

225

at Work

international beach bum. His

a

along

the central

carefree life of an

daily

expatri

activities consisted of

fishing, taking siestas, learning about the Indian culture, and pan
handling for food. But the fun was soon to end.
One day Pierre awoke with a sharp pain on the right side of his
abdomen, just beneath his rib cage.
breathe. He noticed his urine

was

It

was

difficult for him

to

dark brown, almost tea-colored,

light yellow colored. He had a fever, no
and
was extremely nauseous. Food and water would not
appetite,
stay downâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;he frequently threw up. Several days later, while he was
looking in a mirror in a public restroom, Pierre saw that his skin and
the whites of his eyes had turned yellow. He was jaundiced. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
when he knew he had hepatitis. Being sick in your own country is
scary enough, but when you are in a poor, developing country, far
while his stools

were

from home and without money, it can be even scarier.
Pierre went from hospital to hospital, hoping for a

told that there

ing
and

was no cure

He

was

for his form of hepatitis, and that noth

could be done. Because he had
an even

cure.

a

hard time

keeping fluids down,

harder time

weaker and lost

a

keeping food down, he grew weaker and
lot of weight. Out of desperation, he was directed

hospital and yoga research institute where I was studying and
conducting research, about 400 miles northwest of Goa. In this hos
pital, all-natural treatments from the world of yoga are prescribed
and administered to patients with diseases for which modern medi
to

the

cine has

not

been able

to

find

a cure.

prescribed things that made absolutely no sense to me
whatsoever. For example, he was prescribed regular breathing prac
tices, known as pranayama, that were supposed to calm his nervous
system and improve oxygenation of the blood. He was also pre
scribed kri)ias, specific intestinal water cleanses that flushed his
intestines and were supposed to cleanse and purif~r his liver. Pierre
was also prescribed certain asanas, or yoga poses, along with other
gentle abdominal exercises to help massage his internal organs and
Pierre

was

promote blood flow to the liver. He also was instructed to drink lots
of water and juices, and he was fed kichari, a traditional yogic food
made up of cooked, split mung beans (dal) and basmati rice. I was
told kichari was gentle and soothing, easy to digest, an excellent

226

Your

source

of protein, and that it contained

als, and
such

elements that

trace

as

papaya,

and

along

help

Extraordinary Healing System

numerous

vitamins, miner

liver health. Other foods,

restore

with natural medicines that

the liver,

helped

nourish

also

were
strengthen
prescribed.
Following treatment with these unconventional methods, Pierre
regained his health and in several months completely cured his
hepatitis. His case demonstrates that even in the absence of modern
medicines, healing can occur when treatment is aimed at cooperat
ing with your body’s healing system. In yoga, all attempts at restora
tion of health are designed to work with your healing system, not

against
areas

ing

it. For this reason, yoga remains

of the

most

promising

working with
well-being.

your heal

one

of investigation if you’re interested in

system

to

achieve

Ned’s
Ned Peterson

of

Story

was

health and

optimal

professor

a

University of Hawaii.

Extraordinary Healing

He

was

emeritus

psychology

in

at

the

59 years of age when he was first diag
diagnosis, Ned had been

nosed with heart disease. Before his

suffering from vague chest pain for several months, but he dismissed
these pains as only a muscle strain. ‘When he finally visited his
doctor, he was referred to a cardiologist, who ordered a stress test
and

an

angiogram,

that

a test

measures

the blood flow in the

arter

ies that feed the heart.

Ned’s
ease.

cardiologist told him that the stress test showed heart dis
Results of his angiogram were also not good. The main artery

100 percent blocked and

was

cent

two

others

blocked. A thallium test, which

heart muscle, confirmed

were

80 percent

measures

to

blood flow

85 per
to the

blockages to important areas of the
blockages, Ned had only one
coronary-artery bypass surgery. He was told that
severe

heart. Because of the locations of the

option:

immediate

if he didn’t have this

operation,

he would be dead within several

months.
Ned
not

reluctant

accept surgery as his only alternative. He was
fond of the idea of having his chest cracked open and his heart
was

to

stopped while the surgeon
bypassing the blockages.

stitched
The

tiny veins

to

his coronary arteries,

significant potential complications

Your

Heahng System

associated with

227

at Work

open-heart

surgery caused him

to

seek another

solution.

cardiologist thanks, but no thanks; he would try
His cardiologist told him he was a fool and would

Ned told his
another way.

be dead within the year.
luck, Ned stumbled upon the work of Dr. Dean Ornish, the

probably
By

first person in the world to prove reversal of heart disease without
drugs or surgery. Ned read Dr. Ornish’s best-selling book, Dr. Dean

Program for Reversing Heart Disease, and he began a low-fat,
plant-based diet. He also embarked on an exercise regimen of walk
ing and bike riding three to six days a week, and daily gentle yoga
Ornish’s

stretching, relaxation, and meditation. And he learned how to get in
touch with his feelings and express them.
After Ned had followed Dr. Ornish’s program for two weeks, his
pain diminished significantly. After one month, it had vanished

chest

completely. In three months, he could bike 12 miles while barely
breaking a sweat. In one year, he went to another doctor who ordered
a new angiogram and thallium test. Ned’s repeat angiogram showed
the blockages had dissolved significantly. The 100 percent-blocked
vessel was now only 40 percent blocked, and the 80 percent to 85 per
cent blockages were reduced to 20 percent to 25 percent. The repeat
thallium test showed 300 percent improvement of blood flow to the
heart muscles. Ned was completely out of the danger zone.
Ned felt like a new man, and with laboratory proof to confirm
his reversal of heart disease, he went back to the first cardiologist
who had told him he’d be dead within a year if he didn’t undergo
open-heart surgery. Ned showed the doctor his angiogram and his
thallium test results. The cardiologist stared at them in disbelief. He
asked Ned how he had done it, how he had reversed his heart dis
ease.

Ned told him about the work of Dr. Ornish.

Today, Ned runs volunteer groups for newly diagnosed heart
patients, and he receives regular referrals from the same cardiologist
who originally told him he was a fool not to undergo open-heart
surgery. He has written a best-selling book about caring for the
heart, and he is completely free from heart disease. Because he was
able to understand what contributed to the blockages in his heart,
and he took corrective action that addressed the underlying causes
of his problem, his healing system was able to repair the damages

228

Your

and

reverse

has learned

his disease.
to

listen

Today,

Ned

enjoys

Extraordinary Healing System

radiant health because he

and cooperate with his

to

healing

system.

Norman Cousins’
of

Story
Extraordinary Healing

the first person to tell me about the body’s
heal ing system. His own case is one of the most dramatic and vivid
examples of the healing system in action.
Norman Cousins

was

A remarkable writer and international

peacemaker,

Cousins

traveled

to Hiroshima each year for 40 years to help heal people’s
wounds caused by the dropping of the atomic bomb on Japan in

World War II. For many years, he also helped negotiate the release
of important political and religious prisoners throughout the world.
One

day,

after

serving

as a

talks between President
Cousins

mediator

John

returned home

F.

from

during
Kennedy
the

the famous SALT treaty

and Nikita Krushchev,

Soviet

Union

exhausted, physically, mentally, and emotionally. He

completely
extremely

was

upset that the talks had not gone well and that the Soviets were defi
antly moving forward on the buildup of nuclear weapons. It was a
very stressful time for Cousins. Several

days later,

a

mysterious fever

surfaced.
In addition

his fever and exhaustion, Cousins’

to

stiffen and become

After many

spine began

to

tests, he

was diag
extremely painful.
having an advanced case of ankylosing spondylitis, a severe
form of spinal arthritis that causes a progressive stiffening and fusion

nosed

as

of all of the vertebrae of the

spine. Cardiac

involvement and death

distinct

possibility~
family doctor checked him into one of the country’s
finest hospitals, and summoned and consulted the best specialists of
the day. The expert medical opinions were unanimous: Nothing
could be done; his was a hopelessly terminal case. Cousins was given

were a

Cousins’

six months

to

live.

The doctors monitored his sedimentation rate, which was a spe
cific blood test that marked the severity of this disease. Already high,
the

rate

team

continued

would stick

a

to

rise each

day. Every day, the blood-drawing
arm to biochemically confirm his

needle in his

Your

Heahr~g System

at

229

Work

progressive, deteriorating condition. In his rare lighter moments,
because the blood-drawing team wasn’t really helping him, Cousins
jokingly referred to them as “the vampire squad.” During this time,
Cousins realized that, because he had only six months to live, he
might as well enjoy his final days. In his state of despair and hope
lessness, he accidentally stumbled onto the secret healing power of
humor and laughter as antidotes to pain and misery.
Cousins was a friend to many celebrities, from U.S. presidents
to Hollywood movie stars. One of these friends was Allen Funt, the
producer of the hit TV comedy series Candid Camera. Funt supplied
Cousins with films of the show’s most memorable episodes. Cousins
also watched other funny movies, including Marx brothers’ films. As
he lay in his hospital room, lost in the gaiety and laughter of the
movies, he began to notice his pain lessening. Specifically, he discov
ered that for every 15 minutes of solid belly laughter, he could get
two hours of pain-free sleep. At the same time, Linus Pauling, Nobel
Laureate chemist and

a

close friend of Cousins, insisted that he take

vitamin C every day.
As Cousins continued

this program, he slowly noticed his
The “vampire squad” also reported that his

symptoms improving.
sedimentation rate started

chemistry

was

changing

on

to

for

drop, indicating that his internal bio
the good. Within several months, he

could get out of bed and walk without a cane or crutches. Within a
year, he was completely pain free, his sedimentation rate was back to

normal, and he
also

was

declared “cured,”

only by his doctor, but
had previously declared his

not

by the top specialists of the day, who
case hopeless.
After writing his best-selling book Anatomy of an Illness, which
describes the details of his miraculous healing journey and triumph
over ankylosing spondylitis, Cousins went on to spearhead pioneer
ing research in a new field of medicine known as psychoneuroim
munology, which, as noted earlier, studies how the mind and nervous

system can affect the immune system and influence the course of ill
ness and health. Many AIDS and cancer patients have benefited

from these studies. As with all the systems in the body, the immune
system depends on the healing system to do its best work. A strong
is necessary for the immune system to function opti
it did in Norman Cousins’ case. After 10 years of work in

healing system
mally—as

230

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

appropriately titled
The Biology ofHope and the Healing Power of the Human

this field, Cousins’
Head First:

next

book

best-selling

was

Spirit.

Arthur’s

Story

of

Extraordinary Healing

Siegel is a well-known cancer surgeon, internationally
acclaimed speaker, and best-selling author of numerous books,
including the immensely inspirational, timeless classic, Love,
Medicine, and Miracles. One of the earlier cases that helped inspire
Dr. Bernie

him involved

Siegel’s who
dition

was

live. Dr.

a

had been

described
did

One

named Arthur. Arthur

man

Siegel
day five

diagnosed
expect

Siegel

His

cancer.

given

was

ran

of Dr.

patient

con

six months

hear from him

to see or

later, however, Dr.

years

a

advanced

an

terminal, and he

as

not

with

was

to

again.

into Arthur in

the local grocery store, and he was astonished. He thought he’d seen
a ghost. He told Arthur that he was supposed to be dead—what was
he

doing

still alive?

Arthur

replied,

“Dr.

Siegel,

you

probably

don’t remember what

me, but you said I had only six months to live, and that it
important for me to make it the best six months of my life.”

you told
was

“I took your advice. I quit my job, which I never
liked. I went on a cruise, which was something I had always

Arthur

really

went on,

wanted

thing

to

do, and I

else I’d

always

began taking piano lessons,
wanted

to

which

was some

do. After six months, I felt

so

good,

been sick in the past five years,
to
and I have never felt better in my whole life.”
Dr. Siegel stood there scratching his head and thought, “I
I decided I didn’t have

die. I’ve

wonder how many more of my
still alive, like Arthur.”
The

next

morning,

lies of hundreds of his

surprise,
were

still

He

not

patients

who I

sent

home

to

die

he had his medical-office staff call the fami

patients

who

were

assumed dead. To his

he discovered that about 20 percent of these terminal
living and were completely healthy.

thought again

are

cases

and wondered

why they hadn’t come back to
were a patient, your doctor said

him. Then it hit him: If you
you’d be dead in six months, and after six months you felt better
see

Healing System

Your

at

231

Work

than you ever had in your whole life, the last
doctor’s office.

course

cancer,

of the

things they
minal

personally called all of these patients and asked
willing to attend weekly group meetings. Over the

be

12 years, these patients, who
group. Dr. Siegel called them

next

met as a

Patients, and

they served

did

cases

The

go is your

then

Siegel
they’d

Dr.

them if

place you’d

of

to

were

all survivors of

Exceptional

Cancer

his teachers. Their stories, and the many
healing systems while overcoming ter

as

activate their

cancer,

are

described in Love, Medicine, and Miracles.

Siegel’s work is that it has given hope to mil
lions afflicted with terminal, life-threatening illnesses. In his words:
“There are no such things as incurable illnesses, only incurable
people.” He backs up these words by pointing to the scientific liter
ature, which contains case reports of people from all walks of life
beating every so-called incurable illness known to man. It is Dr.
Siegel’s opinion that if one person can beat an incurable disease, by
definition, the disease can no longer be called incurable. Dr. Siegel’s
Exceptional Cancer Patients provide strong evidence that our heal
ing systems can be accessed and activated through a variety of means
and ways, and that, once activated, they can overcome even the most
beauty

of life’s afflictions.

severe

Louise
Louise
At

a

of Dr.

Hay

Hay’s Story

was a

young

of

woman

Extraordinary Healing
who

barely

finished

high

school.

developed cervical cancer, and she was told
undergo immediate surgery and chemotherapy,

young age, she

if she didn’t

that
she

would die.
Louise

was

chemicals with
she decided

the

impact

to

reluctant

to

potentially

have

operation and put strange
body. Instead,

pursue alternative methods of healing. She researched

of nutritious foods

diet. She also

an

toxic side effects into her

the

on

her health, and she

changed

her

connection and discovered

mind-body
explored
and attitudes could be powerful influ
emotions,
thoughts,
ences on her physical health.
During this journey of self-exploration, Louise discovered that
she had been sexually abused, and that, as a consequence, she had
how her

232

Your

harbored shame and

for the part of her body where the
After she had discovered certain inner

resentment

eventually developed.

cancer

truths about herself, she realized that it
would show up there.
Slowly, as Louiseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s diet,
she learned how

action, her

care

cancer went

enjoy

on to

gone

to

Extraordinary Healing System

lifestyle,

more

quite logical

that

cancer

and

and attitudes

improved,
thought, word,

for herself in

never

away,

was

again

to return.

radiant health, and she has become

and

She has since
an

extraordi

nary teacher and healer.
In her healing work, Louise discovered that, in many instances,
how we treat our bodies is a reflection of how we treat ourselves.

This interaction has

and

on our

thoughts

powerful influence on our healing systems,
example, when we think kind and loving

a

health. For

about

our

selves and

our

bodies,

we

tend

to

treat

them

with love and kindness. This encourages us to eat right, and to exer
cise, rest, and sleep well, among other things. These behaviors help

strengthen

and

health. When

others,

we

harmful

to

fortify

we

tend
our

are

Louise

systems and ensure our good
life and resentful of ourselves and

healing

angry

at

in self-destructive activities that

participate

to

bodies. These behaviors make

system and

healing

our

can

went on to

ultimately

contribute

to

extra

work for

are

our

illness.

write several international

best-selling

clas

is You Can Heal Your

L~,
perhaps most famous,
She
also
has
produced
self-healing journey.
many
other wonderful books and tapes to help others who are interested
in healing. She even started her own successful publishing company,
Hay House, which has grown rapidly since its inception.
sics. Her first, and

based

on

her

own

Steveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Story

of

Extraordinary Healing

carpenter doing framing work on a custom home. One
while he was climbing a ladder and carrying his electric saw, he

Steve

was a

day,
slipped

and fell. In the commotion, somehow he

switch that turned the

saw on.

The

powerful

accidentally

saw cut a

hit the

clean track

saw that
completely severing
his hand and wrist were no longer attached to his body. Blood was
everywhere. He screamed for help, and his coworkers came running.

through

his

arm,

it. He looked down and

Your

HeaUng System

at

233

Work

They called the ambulance, and someone had the presence of mind to
apply a tourniquet to Steve’s arm to help stop the bleeding. Another
person grabbed his severed wrist and hand and put it in a bag.
The paramedics arrived on the scene within 20 minutes, and
they took Steve and his severed hand to the UCLA Medical Center.
He was immediately rushed to the operating room, where two teams
of surgeons and nurses were already waiting to work on him. One
team worked on the hand, dissecting the blood vessels, bones, ten
dons, muscles, and

preparing

nerves,

while the other

team

the severed end for reattachment.

to connect

Steve’s hand

to

his

arm.

This

worked

on

his

They were going

was

arm,

to

try
in 1975, when these

kinds of

operations were not so common.
I was employed at the UCLA Medical Center as an operatingroom assistant at the time. My shift started at 7:00 AM and ended at
3:30 PM. When I came back the next morning at 7:00 AM, the oper
ation was still going on, and it continued for several more hours.
After the operation, Steve’s arm was put in an immobilizing
splint. After two months, the splint was removed, and he began
physical therapy, during which he learned exercises to help stretch
and strengthen his arm and hand. .Thanks to Steve’s healing system,
the healing process was well under way by the time he reached phys
ical therapy.
Within six months, Steve was able to gain full use of his arm,
including his wrist, hand, and fingers. Within one year, most of the
sensation had returned to his fingertips. Additionally, even though
Steve had lost

of blood from the accident (he
surprisingly, he didn’t need any blood

an enormous amount

had almost gone into shock),
transfusions after the operation.
iron-rich fruits and

vegetables,

By drinking lots
he

was

able

of fluids and

to

system in making more blood for his body.
Because of Steve’s healing system, circulation

fingers

was

assist his

to

restored. His severed bones knitted back

eating

healing

his hand and

together

and

stronger than ever. The severed muscles and tendons were
rejoined, mended, and healed. His nerves regenerated and registered

were

fully intact sensation. Within one year, Steve was back on the
job, healthy and strong, and cutting wood with his favorite saw. This
almost

time, however, whenever he moved around with it, he made

safety

switch

was on.

sure

the

234

Your

Rose’s

Story

of

Extraordinary Healing System

Extraordinary Healing

elderly woman who had been suffering from a rash on
her arms and legs for several months. She went to see my good friend
Dr. Elpern, who specializes in dermatology~ Dr. Elpern had tried var
ious remedies, and he had Rose come back several times for checkups.
Each time, there was no improvement in her skin condition.
Becoming a little frustrated, Dr. Elpern decided to stop her
medications and probe deeper into the possible causes of Rose’s rash.
He asked if she had been facing any unusual difficulties at home or
had been under any kind of stress. Rose told Dr. Elpern that her
husband had recently become very sick and that she was worried
Rose

was an

about his health. She
had

went on to

been successful

not

at

tell him that her husband’s doctors

making

discovered that her rash had first
onset

her husband better. Dr.

Elpern

about the time of the

appeared

of her husband’s illness.

brought him to Dr.
Elpern on her next visit. He questioned her husband thoroughly,
examined him, made a presumptive diagnosis, and treated him
accordingly. In a week’s time, Rose’s husband was feeling much
better. Oddly enough, Rose’s rash also began to improve.
On Rose’s next visit with Dr. Elpern two weeks later, her rash
was completely gone. Dr. Elpern hadn’t done anything other than
treat her husband for an unrelated condition. Dr. Elpern knew that
stress can affect a person’s healing system, and he was wise enough
Dr.

to treat

Elpern

the

Once he

asked

source

regained

Sam’s
Sam

was an

to see

Rose’s husband. She

of Rose’s rash, which

his health, she

Story

of

obese Hawaiian

was

regained

her husband’s health.

hers,

as

well.

Extraordinary Healing
man

foods such

who led

a

canned

sedentary

life and

and

ate

high-fat
obesity, Sam
also suffered from several other chronic diseases, including insulin
dependent diabetes, which was poorly controlled. Sam’s doctor
wanted to send him to Dr. Shintani, a progressive young doctor who
had a strong background in nutrition and preventive medicine. Dr.
typical modern-day

Hawaiian foods such

as

pork lau

as

meats

lau. In addition

to

his

HeaHng System

Your

Shintani had

as

235

Work

just launched a

Hawaiians known

After

at

new

his medical

taking

preventive

nutritional program for

the Hawaiian Diet.

history

and

conducting

Dr. Shintani recommended that Sam go

exam,

Diet, which

was

formulated from

a

and traditional Hawaiian wisdom.

on

physical

a

the Hawaiian

combination of modern science
historical

According to

accounts,

the

original Hawaiian people (before the arrival of the European
explorers and missionaries) were quite healthy, athletic, and lean.
common among Western cultures were nonexistent
Hawaiian
peoples when Captain James Cook first discovered
among
them in the 1600s. The original Hawaiians ate mainly simple,

Many

diseases

wholesome, healthy foods such
such

potatoes and

sweet

as

as

taro;

fruits; complex carbohydrates,

vegetables;

whole

grains;

nuts;

seeds; and fish. This diet was in stark contrast to such high-fat foods
as fried chicken, roasted pig, and fast foods, popular among presentday Hawaiians such as Sam. According to Dr. Shintani’s research, it
is because of their modern, perverted diet and unnatural lifestyles
that Hawaiians suffer from high rates of obesity, diabetes, heart dis
blood pressure, and stroke.
When he first met Dr. Shintani, Sam

ease,

high

overweight

and

diabetes. After
lost 150

required

was more

100 units of insulin each

than 150

day

to

pounds

control his

and one-half years on the Hawaiian Diet, Sam had
His blood-sugar levels had dropped to normal, and

one

pounds.
to completely get off his insulin. He maintains normal
was
blood sugar levels to this day by staying on the Hawaiian Diet.
The areas of nutrition and preventive medicine are sadly lacking
in the practice of conventional modern medicine, and they are vir
tually absent from the curriculum of most medical schools in the
West. But these two related fields of study, which most physicians
rarely discuss with their patients, provide some of the most practical
and important strategies to summon the support of the body’s
healing system in the healing and prevention of even the most dev
astating modern-day illnesses. This emphasis has been the main
thrust of pioneering physicians such as Dr. Shintani. Sam’s story
provides a clear example of how cooperating with your body’s natu
ral healing system by applying these ideas about nutrition and
prevention can reverse a deadly disease such as diabetes and effect
true and permanent healing.
he

able

236

Your

Jim’s Story

of

Extraordinary Healing System

Extraordinary Healing

plumber in his early fifties. He led an active life, except
when he became incapacitated with flare-ups of his psoriasis, a con
dition he had been suffering with for 30 years. Jim’s psoriasis would

Jim

was

flare up

a

at

important

the

most

scheduled

inconvenient times. It caused him
events,

such

as

family outings

or

to

cancel

fishing trips

with his buddies.

patches on the skin, the knees, the feet and
anldes, the elbows, the scalp, behind the ears, or just about any other
place you can imagine. Although it is considered a skin disease, in
severe cases psoriasis can also involve the joints, becoming a debilitat
Psoriasis

ing

can occur

in

form of arthritis. Modern medicine does

not

understand what

it mainly with
to cure
psoriasis.
suppressive medications, which give temporary relief, at best. This
approach is often referred to as palliation, or the process of easing dis
comfort without curing. Corticosteroid and immune-suppressing
creams are usually administered daily to reduce the severity of the
symptoms. These treatments are applied more frequently during flareups. Strong pills are often prescribed for more severe cases.
Jim had a drawer full of creams and pills that he had collected
over the years during his many visits to doctors. However, as much
as he used his medications religiously, his flare-ups were becoming
more frequent and more severe. Each time his psoriasis erupted, his
old patches grew larger and more angry, staying inflamed for longer
periods. Additionally, new patches of inflamed skin were surfacing
in areas that were previously normal. His condition was worsening,
and, in addition to being painful and irritating, there seemed to be
no rhyme or reason to the flare-ups or why his disease was spread
ing. His psoriasis was starting to drive him crazy. It was then that he
began to understand the phrase “the heartbreak of psoriasis.”
By luck, Jim came across the work of Dr. John Pagano, a chiro
practor who had worked with many psoriasis patients over the years,
and who had written an award-winning book entitled Healing

Unable

causes

it, doctors

treat

Psoriasis: The Natural Alternative. This book contains many

descriptions
after)

Pagano’s

plates of psoriasis patients (before and
successfully cured their psoriasis by following Dr.

and full-color

who have

case

recommendations.

Healing System

Your

237

at Work

Pagano’s approach to healing psoriasis is based on a broader
understanding of the human body, the reality of a healing system,
Dr.

how all the other systems are interconnected, and how once balance
is restored among these systems, healing can occur. In particular,

Pagano’s approach

Dr.

takes into consideration the

unique

relation

between the skin and the intestines. His work focuses

ship

of the skin, and how

eliminative

properties
constipation can lead to a buildup
contribute to psoriasis. His research has
such

as

digestive

on

the

disturbances

of toxins in the skin that
demonstrated that

once

intestinal health and

hygiene are restored through proper diet,
is
psoriasis greatly improved or even completely eliminated.
When Dr. Pagano met Jim, he questioned him at length about
his diet, something that no other doctor had done before. He then
told Jim he had to give up his coffee habit, which was initially quite
difficult for him to do, and to incorporate more fruits, vegetables,
and fiber into his diet. He also told him

water,

other

junk

At

to

foods that he had become habituated

change for the first six weeks.
really thought that the changes in his diet
Pagano reaffirmed that Jim needed to stick

his condition didn’t

He asked Dr.

could heal his

if he

Pagano
psoriasis.

Dr.

the years.
worth it, espe

to over

first, Jim didn’t think that all these sacrifices were

cially when

up sodas and

give

seem to

with the program, that soon he’d start to see improvement.
After three months, Jim began to notice a reduction in the

of his

and

sever

times of stress, which

flare-ups,
during
frequency
ity
usually made his psoriasis worse. His patches looked less red and
were more itchy than painful. After six months, his patches started
to

fade and look

After

by

more

even

like the color of his normal

surrounding skin.

year, his patches had receded and could only be discovered
persistent and deliberate probing. After two years, not a lesion
one

could be found, and his

psoriasis

was

gone. Five years have

passed,

and Jim has not had a recurrence. The “heartbreak of psoriasis” is
now a distant memory. Jim hasn’t missed a fishing trip or family

outing in

five years, and, instead of a drawer full of creams and med
now has a drawer full of shorts, which he never used to

ications, he

because of the embarrassment of his

psoriasis patches.
Jim took
healing system
again,
measures to strengthen it through diet; and his psoriasis, which had
been a major problem for years, was cured.

wear

Once

the

went

into action when

238

Your

Hal’s
Hal,

of

Story

Extraordinary Healing

former athlete and

a

chronic

eczema on

Extraordinary Healing System

now

medical student, had suffered

a

both of his hands for six years. When his

eczema

flared up, Hal couldn’t even hold a football because of the cracking
and bleeding on his hands, and, in particular, on the thumb on his

throwing arm. This condition was especially debilitating and humil
iating because Hal had been a star quarterback on his college
football

team.

Hal’s

eczema

began when

he

was

working as

an

orderly in

a

busy

medical-center emergency room. During this period, he routinely
used industrial-strength germicidal soaps, which seemed to irritate
his hands,

to

clean the doctor’s labs. The

he

gloves

supposed

was

to

protect his hands ripped and tore, and were more of a hin
drance than a help. So Hal just did his scrubbing and cleaning
to

use

without them. Other factors, such
to

Hal’s

as

eczema,

extremely itchy,

and

creams

did

and

some

pills,

skin

than 20

more

no

was

they

started

to

Hal’s hands and

saw

He took

improvement.
was eventually

tests

could have contributed

crack and bleed.

and he
on

allergens.

Hal. The skin
Based

on

these

prescribed

referred
tests

tests,

treatments,

truckload of various

a

to an

allergist, who
positive for

indicated

Hal underwent

a

series

avail. After several years, he gave up all
injections,
that his condition would ever be healed.
all

of allergy

hope

stress,

well. After six months, his hands became

Doctor after doctor

but there

as

to no

Six years to the day after he began, Hal had just finished the aca
demic and clinical work for his senior year in medical school. He

beginning his internship, usually the
most difficult year in a young doctor’s training. He was awaiting the
results of the national match program, to find out which hospital he
would be assigned to for his postgraduate residency training.
Every day for four years, on his way to medical school in
Philadelphia, Hal had passed a pottery studio that offered beginning
classes in making pottery. He had remarked to himself that someday,
had

a

few weeks off before

when he had

beginning

a

little

extra

classes. Now

time, he would like

was

to

take

one

of those

his chance.

Hal walked into the pottery studio and signed up for a beginning
class that lasted six weeks. He informed the teacher that his goal was

Your

to

Healing System

make

a

239

at Work

complete

dinnerware

setting

for six,

including plates,

soup

bowls, and coffee mugs, before the six-week class was finished. The
teacher thought this was a bit too much, not realizing that she was

dealing with
Hal
to

a

typical

came to

type

class the

A-personality medical student.
first day and was given a lump

mold and form between his hands. He

clay,

how

to

add

it if it became

more

too

moisture when it became

and how

wet,

dough. That first day,

was

told how

Hal

to

too

thoroughly

He followed the teacher’s instructions

After several classes, the students

how

just

clay

for the

to care

dry,

roll and knead it,

of wet

to

dry

like bread

immersed his hands in the

clay.

earnestly and sincerely.
were

introduced

to

the

potter’s

which pots are “thrown” or spun into shape by the skill
ful hands of the potter. Hal absolutely loved the potter’s wheel, and

wheel,

on

during his free time after class, working long hours with
clay.
though he was only a beginner, Hal again reminded
of
the teacher
his goal to create a complete dinner setting for six.
Six weeks later, at the end of the last class, Hal had completed
his dinnerware set for six, which he removed with joy from the kiln
and proudly displayed in front of the other students in the class.
After he did this, he happened to glance down at his hands. They
were no longer cracked or bleeding, and they had no signs of eczema.
he

came

the

in

Even

Now, 20 years later, the
know

exactly

how Hal

eczema

has

never

returned. We don’t

cured.

Perhaps doing something relaxing
enough to stimulate his healing system into action.
Perhaps working with the clay itself had a healing effect on Hal’s
hands. Perhaps the cure involved a combination of the two; we’ll
never really know. What we do know for sure is that Hal’s healing
system was ready to do. its work, and all it needed was the right cat
alyst for it to spring into action.
was

that he loved was

Sister Esther’s
Sister Esther

was

senior

Minnesota, the site of a
the

appear

nun

at

of

Extraordinary Healing

the Good Counsel Hill

convent

in

of Alzheimer’s

groundbreaking 15-year study
study was conducted by Dr. David Snowden, a researcher
University of Minnesota, and it was important enough to
on the cover of Time magazine. Sister Esther, who was 106

disease. The
at

Story

240

Extraordinary Healing System

Your

years of age, and many of her fellow

and nineties, showed

no

signs

nuns,

advanced ages. This fact was in
conventional science would have predicted.
well
ease.

Because Esther

nuns

to

discover other

might explain

eighties
despite signifi

sharp

contrast

what

to

interested in Esther’s life story, as
who were free from Alzheimer’s dis

the riddle

functional and

mentally sharp as a
age, Dr. Snowden decided to look deeper
causes than merely age or genetics that
of Alzheimer’s disease, which annually

fully

was

whip despite her advanced
and try

in their

particularly

was

those of her sister

as

were

of Alzheimer’s disease,

candy

Dr. Snowden

who

affects about 4 million Americans.

completely different scenario
for Alzheimer’s disease than is currently theorized by most
researchers. Because of the length and thoroughness of his study, Dr.
Snowden’s findings are not only credible, but they also offer tremen
dous hope and insights about how the healing system works and
how we can stay healthy as we age. In Dr. Snowden’s scientific opin
ion, Alzheimer’s disease is strongly linked to lifestyle, environment,
Dr. Snowden’s research revealed

a

and social and emotional factors, all of which
and

physiology
Likening the

“Use it

or

brain

were

to a

affect the anatomy

muscle, and applying the familiar

lose it,” Dr. Snowden found that the

stimulated and

tally
and

can

of the brain.

able

to

socially

nuns

who

axiom

kept

men

connected showed the fewest symptoms
altogether. Age didn’t seem to be a

avoid the disease

critical factor. The older

by thoughtful writing
meaningful work and

who continued

nuns

and

speaking

while

to

exercise their brains

remaining engaged

in other

activities continued free of the symptoms of
Alzheimer’s disease, while younger nuns who were socially withdrawn
and not mentally stimulated developed symptoms of the disease.

Sister Esther

rides

a

stationary

actively
vent.

In

enjoys working

various craft

projects, and

exercise bike for 10 minutes every

involved with other
our

on

to

nuns

day.

She stays

and with the affairs of her

understand how the mind affects the

attempts
Sister Esther’s

she

con

body,

example and Dr. Snowden’s research
remind us of how important it is to keep using our brains, remain
socially connected with our friends and family, and find ways to
keep ourselves stimulated and actively involved in life. A well
rounded, healthy lifestyle that involves mental challenges as well as
and vice

versa,

Your

Healing System

at

241

Work

strong emotional and social connections helps support our healing
systems, which can keep us healthy, even when we reach ages

approaching

Sister Esther’s.

Gerry’s Story

of

Extraordinary Healing

elderly patient of a doctor whose practice I was cover
he was away. Gerry had a long-standing history of
and
she had suffered from hip pain for many years, pain
diabetes,
Gerry was
ing while

an

that caused her
than

to

walk with

a cane.

Her medical chart

was

thicker

phone book, and every time she came in to complain about
hip pain, she was told it was from her diabetes, which is known
cause nerve problems that can result in pain in the legs and lower
a

her
to

extremities.

day while I was examining her, Gerry asked me if I thought
chiropractor might help her hip pain. Not wanting to dis
courage her, but not wanting to build up false hopes either, I told
her it might be worth a try and probably wouldn’t hurt her. Because
her regular doctor was adamantly opposed to chiropractors, he never
approved of her doing this. She had never seen a chiropractor
before, and she was somewhat apprehensive. She seemed relieved
that I wasn’t so against them, and perhaps my reaction helped her
One

a

visit

to a

get up the courage to visit one.
Two weeks later, on her next visit with
the

me,

Gerry walked

into

smiling. I saw that she didn’t have her cane.
“Gerry, you forgot your cane. What’s up with you? “I asked.
“Doctor, I don’t need my cane anymore,” she replied. She
added, “Last night, I went dancing for the first time in 30 years! My
hip pain is completely gone!”
She then burst into tears and thanked me for healing her hip
pain. All I did was give her permission to go to the chiropractor,
who, after one simple adjustment, was able to relieve 30 years of
pain and misery.
Even though Gerry’s is a rather straightforward case, I learned
something important from her. Sometimes, an open mind, a new
way of thinking, and a simple adjustment are all that are necessary
to assist your healing system in restoring health to
your body.
exam room

242

Your

Merryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Story

of

Extraordinary Healing System

Extraordinary Healing

Merry was a young nurse I worked with who used to be a dancer. As
Merry began to attend to her patients and concentrate more on her

dancing became less and
to maintain an
lifestyle, instead of dancing she
took to a program of regular exercise, including jogging. Soon, how
ever, Merry began to notice pains in her hips. At first the pain
occurred only when she tried to exercise. Then, she experienced pain
when she was getting in and out of her car, walking up stairs, and
performing other simple movements. Over a several-year period, the
hip pain became worse and worse, and although she was not yet 30
years old, she began to exhibit a noticeable limp. Merry had to cur
tail all exercises other than slow walking, and even that caused her

professional
less. Trying

career,

however, her

time for

active

considerable discomfort.

Merry eventually
had

to

could

ignore

the

problem

longer, and she
X-rays and blood
diagnosis of severe,
no

several doctors. The doctors did

go to see
and after extensive

investigations made the
They placed Merry on strong anti-inflam
progressive
matory medications, including corticosteroids, but they told her
that eventually she would need a double hip replacement.
Because I was working with Merry, I had only a professional
relationship with her and was not familiar with her medical history.
When I went for a walk with her one day after work, however, I
noticed her limp. I asked her why she was limping. It was then that
I found out about her diagnosis of osteoarthritis. She shared her
pain with me, and told me that she was not looking forward to
having her hips replaced at such a young age.
As an alternative to surgery, even though there werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a lot of
scientific studies to support my work, I had had some previous clin
ical successes with yoga and gentle physical therapy for my patients
with various types of arthritis and joint deformities. By having an
open mind, self-discipline, and a genuine will to improve, many of
these patients were able to avoid surgery and improve the health of
their joints.
I spoke of this work with Merry and suggested several specific
yoga stretches and other gentle therapeutic activities that might help
open up the joint spaces in her hips and reverse her arthritis. She was
tests,

osteoarthritis.

Your

Hea’ing System

243

at Work

for a more permanent solution to her problem and wanted
avoid
to
surgery, and so she was very open to this more conservative
approach. She applied the stretching and other activities diligently

looking

and

persistently.
Soon, however, my

and clinical

military duty

training

took

me

far away from
paths crossed

Merry’s world. It wasn’t until nine years later that our
again, when we met at a medical conference. We

walked

talked, catching up

as we

noticed that her

limp

was

about the arthritis in her

old times. It

on

was

gone, which reminded

me

then that I
to

ask her

hips.

Merry told me that her hips were now disease free. She
dancing again, and it felt wonderful. She told me that she had

was

fol

regimen faithfully during the first several months, and,
after feeling great improvement, decided to stick with it. She has
stuck with it to this day and continues to enjoy excellent health in
both her hips. Merry’s healing system was willing and able to go into
action, but it needed her cooperation. By working with her healing
system using natural, noninvasive techniques, Merry was able to
lowed my

reverse

her arthritis and live her life

out

resorting

not

have been

to
a

the

extreme

long-term

Clyde’s Story
Clyde

was a

to

the fullest

once

again with

solution of surgery, which also

might

solution.

of

Extraordinary Healing

physics professor who

had suffered from back

pain

for

many years. One day, while he was lifting luggage from the trunk of
his car, his back locked up on him and dropped him to his knees.

The
like

pain
a

in his back

excruciating,

bolt of lightening. He couldn’t

help. Luckily,
lance

was

crew

she had their cell

arrived

shortly

and it shot down his

move, not

phone

even

right leg

with his wife’s

and called 911. The ambu

after.

In the emergency room, Clyde was given strong narcotic injec
tions to relieve his pain, relax his muscles, and help break the intense

muscle spasms. His
was called in. Clyde
M~ the

next

lower lumbar

was

was

X-rayed,

and the

orthopedic surgeon
hospital and underwent an
day. The MRI showed a severely herniated disc in the
spine and a synovial cyst in the joint space between
spine

admitted

to

the

244

the

Your

adjacent vertebrae.

Other

Extraordinary Healing System

specialists were called in, including the
to repair the

neurosurgeon, and it was determined that spine surgery
disc and remove the cyst would be necessary.

Clyde, however,
asked if there

was

was not

ready

any urgency

to

undergo spine surgery, and he
the surgery. Clyde was hesitating
to

a poor outcome with a recent
friend
ended
had
His
spine operation.
up with an infection that
almost killed him, and that had kept him hospitalized for than six

because

one

of his friends had had

months after his surgery. Clyde was told that if he wanted to go
home and rest, the surgery could be scheduled within the next

couple

of weeks.

When
were

other

problem.
doctor’s

Clyde went home, he decided to find out whether there
options that didn’t involve surgery to correct his spine

He researched

on

the Internet and found

back

and

a

book about

ultimate

a

that

cure
an
pain
journey through
exercise,
nutrition,
stretching,
including
and stress-management techniques, such as relaxation, meditation,
and guided imagery.
Clyde thought he would give this alternative approach a threeown

involved holistic methods,

month trial, and if it didn’t work, he would then

consent to

the

the book, and the

surgery. He contacted the doctor who wrote
doctor concurred that this might be a wise approach.

applying this doctor’s program,
leg were completely gone.
pain
shrunk significantly, and there was no evi

After three months of diligently

Clyde’s

back

pain

and the

His herniated disc had

dence of his

synovial

down his

cyst.

people undergo back surgery each year in
people will undergo a second operation. It
Many
is not uncommon to meet people who have had 20 or more opera
tions, and many of these people end up with chronic pain.
Fortunately for Clyde, he is not one of these people. Nor is he
ever likely to be. Because he learned to work with his healing system,
Clyde was able to heal his back pain naturally and restore health to
his spine through the regular practice of simple, effective methods
that work with his healing system.
The people you have just met are only a handful of the thou
sands I’ve either known myself or heard about who have learned to
cooperate with their healing systems to eliminate a variety of health
More than 300,000

the U.S.

of these

Your

HeaHng System

at Work

245

life-threatening illnesses such as cancer or
heart disease to more benign conditions that, while not necessarily
life-threatening, significantly compromise the quality of your life,
your healing system can perform remarkable feats if you just learn
how to work with it. You have the power to strengthen and fortif~r
your healing system, just as Rani, Steve, Rose, and the other people
in this section did, and, with extraordinary healing, overcome any
health challenges you face.
problems.

From serious,

PART TWO

Activating Your Healing
System When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Before You

Begin

that you understand how your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system
works and how you can strengthen and fortify it, you can apply this
ow

knowledge to the treatment of specific health problems. Before you
begin, however, there are seven key points to keep in mind while
you are working with your healing system:
1. Remember that you

are not a

machine.

Keep in mind that you are not
being with a body, mind,

human

interconnected. You need

to

ation if any physical
body. This is particularly

true

a

machine, but

and

spirit,

a

complete

and that all

are

take all three aspects into consider
disease is to be truly eradicated from your
for chronic

problems.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When serious illness strikes, it is easy
whelmed, not just physically, but mentally,

to

become

emotionally,

over

and

spiritually, as well. You can become depressed and give up any
hope that you will ever live a normal life again. At times like
these, when you are in a weakened physical and emotional state,
the task of getting better may seem daunting. Because your
mind is connected to your body, when you are in this hopeless
state of mind, it is difficult for your health to improve. As you
recall, your mind is connected to your healing system and exerts

250

Activating

a

tremendous influence

over

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

your internal mechanisms of repair

and recovery. To enlist the services of your mind while you are
working with your healing system, refer to the strategies, methods,

techniques given specifically for

and

2. Focus

on

your

Be careful

healing

not to

system,

pay

more

this purpose in

not on

Chapter

6.

your illness.

attention

to

your disease and the

external agents that may be causing it than to your own healing
system and the steps you need to take to bring it up to speed.
The

most common

illness strikes is that

strategic mistake most people make when
they invest more time, energy, and fear into

what has invaded their bodies,

what is wrong with their

or

their natural internal

healing
they
focusing on
the
healing
emphasis sabotages
process. When
your are sick, you can easily lose sight of your body’s intrinsic
state of health and instead erroneously succumb to the belief
that the illness is more powerful. When you do this, you waste
precious energy that could be used for healing.
Focus your attention on your healing system and not on
your disease, pain, and discomfort. When you do this, your
mind will join forces with your body to more effectively over
come
your illness. This powerful healing partnership can
maximize the flow of your healing energies, mobilize the forces
of healing that exist within you, and produce a more rapid,
effective, and thorough healing response.
bodies, than
resources.

If you
ness

as

do

This

are

an

contributed

motivated

opportunity
to

get better, you can even use your ill
to learn more about the factors that

to

your loss of health in the first

place.

Your illness

only the way to remedy your current situa
to stay healthy and remain balanced in all areas
of your life, so you can avoid getting sick again in the future. In
this respect, illness can be a blessing in disguise, a valuable learn
ing experience, and a time of transformation, renewal, and
healing.
show you
tion, but how
can

3. Practice

not

prevention.

We all remember the
a

pound

of cure.”

saying

“An

ounce

of prevention is worth

Anything, including your body,

is easier

to

fix

Before You

251

Begin

when

problems first begin and damage is minor, than it is if you
problem has escalated to the point at which exten
sive damage has occurred. More time, energy, and expense is
required to repair the damage when you wait to address a prob
lem than if you can prevent it from happening in the first place.
Investing in your health by supporting your healing system

wait until the

when you

effective,
the

are well, so that you can avoid illness, is more cost
in both time and money. Additionally, when you have

momentum

ease

has far

of good health

on

your

side,

any illness

or

dis

difficulty invading your body.

more

If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t prevent a health problem, at least intervene early
to nip it in the bud. Institute corrective measures as soon as pos
sible. Illnesses and diseases that are caught in their early stages
much

are

to

4.

progress,

Pay

easily treated than those that have been allowed
spread, and establish themselves in your body.

more

attention

to

Remember

because it
health.

your

to

body.

listen

provide
Although there
can

to

body whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sick or well
concerning your
few exceptions, do your best to

your

valuable information
are

a

that drains your energy~ makes
you irritable, interferes with sleep or other vital functions,
increases your symptoms, or makes you feel worse. With a few
avoid any

activity

exceptions,

or treatment

continue and pursue any

activity

or treatment

makes your mind and body feel stronger, clearer,
energetic, and more at ease. It is important to
sense

here, and

to

lighter,
use

avoid artificial substances, such

as

that

more

common

anabolic

steroids, opiates, stimulants, or other drugs that may provide
temporary, short-term relief, but that in the long run often
prove harmful. To help you access invaluable support for your
healing during times of illness, review and regularly practice the
exercise for

listening to your body described in Chapter 4.
distinguishing between a symptom of dis
ease and a healthy physiological response from your healing
system is vitally important. For example, as discussed in
Chapter 2, many symptoms of illness, such as coughing, sneez
ing, or fever, are commonly attributed to the actual disease
process when, in fact, they more accurately reflect activation of
Remember that

252

Your

Activating

Healing System

When You’re Sick

body’s healing system. Recognize these symptoms for what
they really are, learn to cooperate and work with them, and
don’t panic when they occur.

your

5. Use natural medicines and
Natural medicines and

treatments

responsibly.

treatments,

when used

responsibly,
they

effective when

highly effective. They are particularly
early on in the course of an illness, or for an illness that
is chronic. And even though many natural medicines and treat
ments are safe, it is important that someone knowledgeable
administers them, their use doesn’t cause you to delay conven
tional treatment that may be more effective, they don’t interact
with conventional medicine you may be currently taking, and
they don’t cause any untoward reaction in your body. Natural
medicine or treatment is best administered by a trained health
professional who also has worked and trained in conventional
medicine and is open-minded enough to understand the practi
can
are

be

used

cal contribution and benefits of a
support your

healing

situations,

are

times when it is

to use

of treatments that

can

system.

6. Use conventional medicines and
There

variety

conventional

treatments

when necessary.

appropriate, particularly
treatments

such

as

in

acute

modern

phar

maceutical agents and surgical procedures, even those that may
be extremely invasive. These treatments can often be life saving,

emergencies. ‘When you are in a car accident and
have sustained critical injuries is not the time to eat brown rice,
meditate, and do acupuncture. You need to go by ambulance
with the help of trained paramedics to the finest hospital emer

particularly

in

There, skilled surgeons and critical-care nurses will
give you the treatment you need. In addition, conventional
diagnostic methods, such as laboratory and imaging techniques,
gency

can

room.

provide key

detailed information about your illness and

monitoring your healing progress.
usually should be attempted
used
medicine
conventional
first,
appropriately has much to
offer for supporting your healing system and facilitating the
healing process.
serve

as

invaluable aids in

While the least invasive methods

Before You

253

Begin

7. Understand your

pain,

and learn how

to

work with it.

of the most potent messages your healing system
Pain
you.
gets your attention and is an urgent wake-up
call from your healing system’s communication center that
Pain is

sends

one

to

of balance and wrong with your body. Pain
tells you that, if you don’t take immediate action, things could
get worse. (There are exceptions to this, such as the pain of

something

is

out

childbirth.) Don’t be frightened or intimidated by your pain;
rather, try to understand it. Pain is a valuable message from your

healing system

and in the

long run

is intended for your benefit.

The purpose of pain is to help you direct your healing ener
gies to a particular area of your body where the normal flow of
energy has become blocked. Pain conveys a sense of urgency;
and, if you don’t respond, its intensity increases. ‘When pain

ignored or suppressed, it evolves into numbness.
‘When this lack of feeling or sensation sets in, it is accompanied
by a loss of function. Numbness is an ominous sign: It is diffi
escalates but is

heal that which you cannot feel.
Always remember that where there is

cult

pain

to

tells you that your

and well and
you

to

nerves

and

pain, there is life. Your
your body’s tissues are alive

communicate with you. It is telling
take corrective action to restore normal function to your
are

trying

to

body. ‘Where there is pain, there is always the opportunity for
healing. Pain is not negative or punitive, but rather a positive,
instructive, helpful message from your body’s healing system.
Pain is

a consummate

friend,

not

teacher, and

you should consider it your

your enemy.

always temporary and needs to be understood, not
ignored or suppressed. When you suppress pain through artifi
cial means, you are turning a deaf ear to valuable information
your body is trying to share with you. A smoke alarm is installed
for your protection, and if you were to snip its wires because
you didn’t like the irritating sound it made every time it was
activated, your house might burn down. Snipping the wires to
Pain is

your internal alarm system is what you do when you suppress
your pain. Unfortunately, through the widespread use of pain

suppressing medications, people in our society are learning how
to successfully ignore their bodies. Doing this is often very

254

Your

Activating

harmful because

ing

causes

have

Healing System

conditions get
been addressed.

most

not

when the

worse

Sometimes, chronic pain doesn’t have

When Youre Sick

physical

a

underly

cause

but

deeper emotional pain. This emotional pain
seeks bodily expression, which can come in the form of unbear
able physical pain. This type of pain is often described as
functional, which means that nothing structural can be found
as the source, as opposed to organic, which means that there is
a definite physical cause for the pain. You must address func
tional pain just as seriously as you do organic pain, and you
must listen to these important messages from your body to acti
vate your healing system and begin the healing process.
has its

Pain is

a

potent message from your

Underlying

life-threatening
take the

in

to Work with Your Pain

Learning

order.

roots

always

causes

cause

healing system

need

has been found, and your

following steps

work with your

to

that

something

be addressed, but if

to

pain,

still

pain

no

persists,
how

no matter

is out of

serious

you

long

or
can

it has

been with you:
o

Listen

to

your

according

exercise
severe

up

body. Regularly practice

and

the instructions

a

day, for

a

to a

If you

healing,

reduce

to

ciate this
o

Dialogue

defer

or

lessen in

discipline

with your

niques presented

taking

learning

need

and

see

to

Your

4. If your

practice

to

improvement
time if your

if your

pain

Body”
pain

pain

to

your

body.

that it

was

longer.

this exercise and

gain full benefits and for

to

ses

has lasted for six

these medications while you
listen

is

this exercise

has been present

As the

intensity and your body heals, you

will

maximum

are

practic

pain eventually
come to

appre

well worth the effort.

pain. Through the guided-imagery and visualization tech
in Part

One, you

pain

and

gain

valuable

tion. You

can

gain

much

your

Chapter

in

taking strong pain suppressants, practicing

the exercise of

begins

more

full benefits may be difficult. To

gaining
ing

are

year. Allow

Listen

to

minimum of 30 to 45 minutes for each

sion. Allow several months for

months

given

longstanding, you initially might

four times

to

to

the “How

can

insights

healing

learn

to

about its

have

a

specific

conversation with

purpose and func

information in this way. Your

healing

255

Begrn

Before You

system is intelligent and knows
and
be

these

by practicing

and direct your

guide

through ‘other

mitment to

implement

techniques. (For

Breathe with your

with your

working

breathing,

tremendouscontrol

tly lengthen
ing energy

over

the master system in your
Your

largest

nerves

you

increase your energy and

can

do you

but you also

bring

help

in your

pain receptors

ing

body. Breathing

body.

simple,

information

easy

to

is

stress-management section in
~

Stretch with your pain.

and

creates

strengthen

always

refer

vital

to restore

lymphatic
of your

rectly,
basic

tips

more

exercises in the

(which

eliminating pain.

important

healing

are

function),

energy

gently

gentle, deep breathing,

When you

structures

aids immune

done

decom

body,

is

and
a

can
cor

power

stretching, keep

these

in mind:

I. Follow the
not to

of

body. Stretching, when

and when combined with slow,
for

(For

you.

muscles in your

blood flow and

more

problem

modality

to

breathing

movement

circulation

enter

ful

Breath

healing system.

your

available

the

modalities

powerful

most

Chapter 6.)

space within which
areas

to

Stretching lengthens

helps

presses nerves,

and fluids, improves

of the

one

breathing, please

on

nerves are

your muscles relax. When

and

practice,

So when your

breathing,
pain automatically diminish throughout

diminish pain and

help

system,

nervous

body.

your muscles relax, tension and

is

oxygen and heal

control all of your muscle tissues, which contain the

number of

known to

more

gain

and gen

slowly

to

relax your

calm and relaxed because of your

your entire

book.)

nearly equivalent. By

are

your pain. When you learn

body,

into your

gain from

you

section in the back of this

breathing, not only

your

insights

a com

information about these valuable tech

more

In yoga, breath and energy

pain.

can

you decide what other

help

into your life whatever

niques, consult the “Resources”
~

This information

means.

efforts and

healing

information that may

can access

you

may be of benefit. It is critical, however, that you make

treatments

these

techniques

unavailable

completely

about your illness than you do,

more

for

guidelines

stretch

too

stretching

described earlier, and remember

far.

avoid any

2. Remember

to

3. Remember

never to

movement

force

or

that increases your

strain while

pain.

stretching. (For

a

guide

to

256

stretches that may

specific

lent book

Grow

from

your

own

our

personal

our

by

an

excel

Larry Payne

Pain

similar function for

serves a

words of well-known

us to

take

Without

change.

push

can

health habits, attitudes, and

lives, and

exceed their

they

buttons that you

reset

pain and disease, pain forces

reevaluate

Drs.

and

listed in the “Resources” section

are

Most machines, when

pain.

functioning.

poor

your condition,

to

Dummies

Yoga for

When Youre Sick

at

book.)

and shut down, have
normal

apply directly

Feurstein. Other books

Georg

the back of this
Q

with is

to start

Healing System

Your

Activating

pain,

us.

thoughts

deeper

a

their

Because

create

look

we cannot

at

our

much of

ourselves,

grow. In the

surgeon and author Dr. Bernie

cancer

capacities

to resume

Siegel,”Pain

is nature’s reset button:’

Pain, particularly of
sages than

blessing

in

chronic nature, often carries with it

merely indicating

Although pain

our

a

be

can

disguise.

a

Pain opens

perspectives, expands

patience
teaches
better
sheer

After

us

purify

gold

also be

can

up, broadens

minds, makes

toughens

and

through pain

a

a

horizons, enlarges

tolerant,teaches

helps

us

you’ve

take

purified by superheating, so

is

your soul and make you

body.

us

and moral fiber. Pain

and

never

mes

great teacher and

our

spirit

our

you’ll

a

us more

understanding,
been

you’ve

something
it

of its force and power,

As

granted again.
pain

and

compassion

people.
brutality

can

our

and endurance, and
us

that

living hell,

deeper

is wrong in your

to

become

survived the

anything

in life for

too the hell fires of

better, stronger,

more

caring

person.
No

matter

learned its

how

long

deeper

it has

lasted, pain is always temporary. Once you have

lesson, the

pain will be released from your body and you

will be free from its tyranny.

There’s No Such

Thing

difficult

to treat

Diseases that

are

as an

Incurable Disease

always been with
patients alike. But

have

us,

and

they

have

because you
system, there is another way to understand

what the word incurable

really

are

for both doctors and

challenging
a powerful healing

means.

Before You

257

Begin

A number of years ago, Dr. Bernie Siegel spoke the following
words that forever changed the way I viewed the word incurabk

“There

are no

The

things as incurable diseases, only incurable people.”

such

reasoning

behind this

is

statement

that, if you search the

medical literature, you will find individual cases of people who have
beaten every single supposedly incurable disease in the world. In Dr.

Siegel’s opinion, if only one person has found a way to cure himself
or herself of a supposedly incurable disease, then, by definition, the
disease is no longer incurable.
Just as human flight was once considered impossible in the days
before the Wright Brothers, and it is now a routine experience, the
incurable diseases of today will most likely be declared curable
tomorrow. In the fields of health and healing, in which sorrow and
suffering are our greatest enemies, it is important to think optimisti
cally, as the Wright Brothers did when they ventured into previously
uncharted territory on only a wing and a prayer, with no prior stud
ies documenting that human flight was possible!
New cures are being discovered every day. One by one, diseases
we previously thought of as incurable are being contained and over
come.
can

The

more we

acknowledge

The

more we

able

to

more

understand how

our

know about

our

bodies work, the

our

understand the factors that contribute

effectively we

can

more we

healing systems perform.
healing systems, the better we will be

the incredible service

demystifj, defuse,

to

disease, and the

and defeat these afflictions.

and preven
tions has grown considerably, and it continues to grow. Leprosy, the
historical scourge of all societies and once thought to be incurable,
The list of illnesses for which

is

now

easily

treated and

out
one

contracts

or

she

can

modern antibiotics. Cholera
hours.

Smallpox,

and rickets

soning

are

once a

have proven

cures

quite rare. The deadly plague that wiped
Ages is now extremely rare, and if some

millions in the Middle

it, he

we

be cured in fewer than 10

can now

be

easily

days

with

cured in less than 72

deadly killer, has been eradicated. Scurvy

almost unheard of.

and botulism almost

Gangrene

never

occur.

is

rare.

Ptomaine

poi

Tuberculosis is also

disappearing rapidly on a global level. Syphilis, comparable to HIV
and AIDS, is now easily treated with penicillin, entirely preventable,
and quite rare. Heart disease, once thought to be incurable, has been
shown by Dr. Dean Ornish and others to not only be reversible even

258

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

forms, but completely preventable. The same is proving
true for arthritis, diabetes, asthma, and other chronic conditions.
Many forms of cancer are also being defeated, and the number of
in its

severe

cancer

The

survivors in the U.S. alone has reached

more we are

able

to

focus

on

more

than 8 million.

efforts and

preventive

systems, the sooner this condition also will become
many other afflictions that we currently fear.

When

we

go

doctor and

to a

are

told

we

have

our

rare,

an

healing
will

as

inoperable

multiple sclerosis, HIV, or some
have a tendency to go into a
followed
state of shock,
by depression, because we assume that noth
ing can be done for us. Most of us have an unhealthy tendency to
give all our power over to our fears, abandon all hope, and give up
in the face of such a difficult challenge. But studies have shown that
this response only accelerates our early demise.
Many people, however, have healed themselves of afflictions
labeled as terminal conditions by their doctors. Even though doing so
refusal
may not have been easy, most of these individuals reported a
to give up and an unwillingness to give in to a spirit of hopelessness.
brain

tumor,

terminal heart disease,

other horrible affliction,

most

of

us

shift in their precon
improvement in the physiology of

With this commitment and resolute attitude,

ditioned beliefs and

a

subsequent

a

internal environment occurred, which activated their

their

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
healing system

and reversed the tide of disease and

process allowed the

positive

more

state

pendulum

to

swing

of health. A clear

debility~

This

back in the direction of

example

HIV and AIDS. When HIV and AIDS first

a

of this is evident with

went

public,

there

was

hysteria. People lost all hope, gave up, and succumbed
a doctor rendered the diagnosis official. A positive
quickly
HIV test was tantamount to a death sentence. Now, however, people
with HIV are living 15 years, some longer, after the original diagno
sis, and many of them are symptom free. Cases also are now being
reported in which people who had HIV-positive blood tests are now
being tested as HI V-negative. Those who take the time to tune into
mass

fear and

when

the wisdom and energy of their bodies, and learn to work with their
healing systems, discover the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to heal and recover its
natural health,
It is

based

even

important

on

from HIV and AIDS.

to

theoretical

optimistic ideas are not
increasing number of studies in

understand that these

conjecture.

An

Before You

259

Begin

the medical literature have demonstrated that

positive

attitudes and

beliefs contribute in

mobilized, they

can

large measure to your health, and that, once
help activate internal healing forces and reverse

life-threatening situations. As I continue to repeat, your
mind and body are connected, and hope and the “will to live” have
been recognized to produce biological consequences that can
improve your state of health, strengthen your defenses, and stimu
late your body’s intrinsic healing mechanisms.
In her courageous book Who Said So? A Woman’s Fascinating
Journey ofSelfDiscovery and Triumph over Multiple Sclerosis, Rachelle
Breslow documented her successful 12-year struggle and epic victory
over multiple sclerosis, and she came to similar conclusions as Dr.
Siegel regarding the label of “incurable disease.” In Ms. Breslow’s
words, “I learned that there is no such thing as incurable, that when
a doctor says something is incurable, he really (and more accurately)
is saying that the medical community has not yet found a cure. Who
can accurately predict anything? The facts are never in. Saying that
a disease is incurable and saying that a cure has not been found are
two entirely different statements.”
When you are confronted with the challenge of a serious disease,
don’t focus on the dynamics of the disease process and give your
power over to the fear that is generated and reinforced by the dis
ease. Try to understand the circumstances that might have led to the
affliction in the first place. Try to recall that, before the affliction,
serious,

your natural

health. Do all you can to cooperate with your
it can do its job properly for you. Remember that,

state was

healing system so
as long as you are alive, you have a healing system with
ity to restore your body to its natural state of health.

Obstacles

to

frequently meet people who

tell

me

capabil

Healing

Factors That Interfere with Your
I

the

that

Healing System

they have tried every con
healing, and they still are

ceivable form of treatment and method for
not

getting

people
this

Upon further questioning, I often find that these
given these methods sufficient time to work. For
strongly recommend that you give each healing

better.

have

reason,

not

I

260

Activating

method you select

at

least

a

six-

Healing System

When Youre Sick

eight-week minimum

trial

period

before you dismiss it as ineffective for you.
to remember that although external agents

notice

improvement
important
of healing can be important,
to

to

Your

It is also

your greatest

resource

for

healing is

the

activation and stimulation of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own healing system. This
is an internal job that requires commitment, courage, persistence,
patience, and a willingness to acknowledge that, together with your

body, you also have a powerful mind and a spirit. Solutions to diffi
physical problems usually require that you utilize all aspects of
who you are for healing.
If you are currently afflicted with a disease or illness, and you
have been trying hard but still are not getting better, consider the
physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual obstacles that could be
keeping you from achieving your goal. Some of the physical obsta
cles to healing are
cult

that many elements in life can either contribute to
interfere with your healing, in addition to the spe

you’re undergoing. The first step in overcoming any
obstacle is recognizing it. If you recognize any of these obstacles as
ones that might be standing in your way, use this knowledge and the
condition-specific guidelines that follow in this section of the book
as an opportunity to activate your healing system and regain your
treatment

natural

state

of health.

262

Activating

Healing System

Your

A Word About

When Youre Sick

Hereditary

Conditions, Familial Diseases, Genetic Disorders,
and

Many diseases
and therefore
a

Congenital

Problems

and conditions appear over and over again in families
are thought to be genetic in origin. However, there is

difference between

familial

and

genetic

conditions.

Although

defective genes and inherited disorders do exist, it is important not
to lump all diseases that turn up again and again in families into
these

genetic categories.
Identifying genetic disorders can help prevent the possibility of
their occurrence, but to over-generalize and label all serious diseases
that run in families as genetic is dangerous. This label causes people
unnecessary helplessness and hopelessness. Many diseases that run
in families are not the result of genetic factors but rather are based
on deep-seated, maladaptive behaviors, attitudes, and emotions, and
on psychological coping mechanisms that express themselves in
poor personal health habits and self-destructive tendencies. Family
members and subsequent generations can avoid and overcome these
conditions. Do not feel bound to inherit your parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or familiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;
disease-oriented, maladaptive legacies; rather, realize the full poten
tial of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural state of health and the incredible healing
system that you have to help you.
Congenital conditions, such as cerebral palsy, often can be
traced back

to

child

unfortunate

events or trauma

while

a

ment

of these difficult conditions

problems
and

can

was

be

preparation

still in the womb. And
can

at

birth

or

though the manage
often be trying, many such

with proper
for childbirth.

prevented

sustained

even

prenatal education,

care,

Getting
A

Started

Daily Program

for

Enhancing Your Healing System

a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step.
first step and each subsequent step along the way
the
though
may seem small and insignificant, when they are added together,
they eventually take you to your final destination. In the same way,

t

is said that

Even

following daily program to strengthen and fortify your healing
system provides a starting point on your journey toward improved
the

health. At first, the activities that make up this program may
quite ordinary and not very significant or life-changing. When
bined and continued

over

time, however,

they

can

make

a

seem
com

huge

difference in your health. In short, they can create extraordinary heal
ing. After just 10 days of following this program, you will notice a
marked

improvement

in your

health, and you should experience

a

much greater sense of well-being.
A word before you start: Because your healing system is vast and
complex, you should not consider this program all-inclusive. As you
the activities in this program to the rhythms of your own life,
you will want to use the methods, techniques, and information
described in earlier chapters to suit your own particular health

apply

needs. Be flexible and

need

ties,

to
to

practical

when you

use

this program. You

arrange the order of daily activities, and the types of activi
fit into your daily schedule. For example, with breathing,

264

Activating

Your

Healing System

When You’re Sick

relaxation,

guided imagery, meditation, or prayer, you might be
with 5 tol5 minutes a day that you can do in the morn
starting
ing before work. But you can gradually build up to at least 30 min
utes, once or twice a day; when you do that, you might then have to
do these activities in the evening. If you are suffering from a serious
out

illness, it will be

beneficial for you to do these activities when
ever you have the time to do them for at least 30 minutes.
In terms of the dietary suggestions, experience has shown me
most

that each person has his or her own specific nutritional needs. For
this reason, I don’t advocate only one type of diet for all people. I

honor the ancient axiom, “One man’s
son.”

Although

adhere

to

I do make

them

meat

is another man’s

general dietary suggestions, do
that
strictly
you ignore common sense.

so

instance, if you have

a

some

fever,

you need

to

poi
not

For

drink lots of fluids and

abstain from
from

a

eating solid foods until the fever passes. If you suffer
specific digestive disorder, follow the dietary guidelines in the

sections in the earlier

chapters that describe in more detail what and
how you should be eating. When it comes to diet and nutrition, lis
ten to the voice of your body’s inner intelligence; that voice is close
ly connected to your healing system.
If you have a question about any activity in the daily program,
refer to the earlier chapters in the book. They describe in more detail
how each activity benefits your healing system.

brushing your teeth and other related activities, take a bath
or shower each morning. Bathing supports your healing system by
cleansing and protecting your body; keeping your skin healthy and
tion

to

Getting

265

Started

free from dirt, germs, and other potentially harmful
isms; and aiding in the elimination of toxins.
Elimination
In addition

(Moving Your Bowels)

for Your

microorgan

Heating System

urinating, it is important to move your bowels each
morning. Doing this prevents unwanted waste and toxins from
building up and helps keep your internal environment clean and
healthy. Regular daily bowel movements reduce the burden on your
healing system and make it easier for it to perform its duties of
repair, reconstruction, and regeneration more efficiently for you.
Here are a few tips to aid the process of elimination:
*

Drink

to

a

cup of warm

liquid (water,

tea,

decaffeinated coffee)

to

help
your bowels. You may need to drink several cups
until you get a result. Warm beverages are better than cold
because heat relaxes the smooth muscles in your intestines,
move

expand and dilate. As the warm fluids help
through the more relaxed and expanded
bowels, unwanted waste products can be eliminated faster and
more easily. Cold liquids, in contrast, constrict the muscles in
the intestines, which narrows the opening of the bowels, and so
they are usually not as effective in aiding the processes of elimi

enabling

them

to

flush the fecal material

nation.
*

If you are frequently constipated or suffer from irregularity, and
you need more than several cups of warm liquids each morning to
move

your

seed husks,

glass
*

or

of warm

any other

water

teaspoons of psyllium
natural fiber supplement, into a

one or two

gentle

heaping

and drink it each

night before you

retire.

If you

want to prevent constipation, eat a healthy diet with lots
of fluids and fiber, which you can find in fruits, vegetables, and

whole

along
*

bowels, stir

grains

Although
or

and

with herbal

legumes. Soups
teas,

lunch

or

in the

evening,

unpopular, okra, eaten either at lunch
vegetables to help ensure healthy
morning. Lightly steamed or cooked, okra is

it is sometimes

dinner, is

one

of the best

elimination in the
one

are

at

also ideal for this purpose.

of the

gentlest

in the world.

and

most

effective of all natural food fibers

266

Your

Activating

Gentle

Stretching

for Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

Healing System

Stretching helps to loosen up and tone your muscles and joints, and
to improve circulation. By increasing flexibility in your joints and
limbs, stretching can also improve lymphatic drainage in your body
and stimulate your glands. When your muscles are lengthened and
their flexibility is increased, space for the passage of nerves increas
es.
Gentle, regular, systematic stretching often relieves pinched
nerves. Stretching can keep your body lithe,
young, and free from
disease, and it is one of the best methods I know for strengthening
and fortifying your healing system.
0

Stretch for 5
lines

to

provided

15 minutes each

in the section

also find it beneficial
empty
J

or

on

morning, following

stretching

stretch in the

to

light stomach,

not

right

after

the

guide

in this book. You may

evenings.
eating.

Stretch

on

an

help of a yoga book or video
beginners, or you may want to sign up for a beginnerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s yoga
class. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never done yoga before, or you have specific

You

can start

with the

stretching

for

health issues, make

you tell the instructor

sure

accommodate your needs.

(If

you have back

so

he

or

she

problems
stiff, try my comprehensive yet gentle stretching routine
the Back to Life Stretching Program, which you will find
previous book, Healing Back Pain Naturally.)

Breathing, Relaxation,

Guided

Meditation, Quiet Reflection,
All of these activities

or

can

are

called
in my

Imagery~
Prayer

or

relax your body, calm your mind and
nervous system, relieve stress, and strengthen and fortify your heal
ing system. They can also help you discover a higher power that

help

to

organizes and directs the flow of energy in the universe and in your
body. Attuning your awareness to this force can be extremely
empowering for your healing system. A great time to do these activ
ities is right after stretching, when your body and mind are already
in a naturally relaxed condition.
o

Take 5 tol5 minutes each
shoulders and entire

body,

day

to

sit in

a

quiet place, relax your
Begin by watching

and close your eyes.

Getting

267

Started

your breath flow in and

out

of your

nose.

You

can

practice

one

breathing techniques described in the section on
techniques will help to calm and focus your
breathing.
mind and nervous system, bringing them into harmony with
your healing system.
or more

of the

These

~

Once you feel calm and relaxed, try one of the guided imagery!
visualization techniques described in this book. Allow your

body. As you focus your
energies
imagine your
your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
healing system springing into action to help repair any damaged
tissues as it restores your health and vitality.

awareness to

go into the interior of your

mental

internal

on

Exercise for Your

structures,

Healing System

healing system by toning the heart, strengthen
ing circulation, and improving mental health. Morning exercise is a
great way to start the day. If you are not already doing so, try to find
a way to fit morning exercise into your schedule.
Exercise

~

helps

your

day, do 15 minutes of simple walking, swimming, bicy
cling, jogging, aerobics, calisthenics, or any other exercise. If
you feel like doing more, or are used to doing more, do so.
Each

However, if you

lately,

are

it is better

new

to

to start out

exercise,

gradually.

you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exercised
Do not to force or strain

or

when you exercise. Observe your breathing to see whether you
are overdoing it. When you exercise, you should be comfortable

breathing. Remember, slow and steady wins the race.
For maximum benefit to your healing system, gradually build
up to 30 to 60 minutes a day, three to six days a week.

with your

Breakfast for Your

Healing System

light, healthy breakfast each day. If your job requires a lot of
physical activity and greater caloric intake, use your common sense
and eat more. If you have a sedentary job, such as a computer oper
ator or office worker, eat a lighter breakfast. If you are overweight or
normally eat a larger lunch, you may want to skip breakfast and just
Eat

organic, naturally sweetened jams and jellies in limited
quantities. These foods can be nourishing and healthful.
cots,

o

You

can

also add small

cashew, almond,

quantities

or sesame

of nut butters, such

tahini,

or

other

protein

as

peanut,
for

sources

breakfast.
o

You

can

also

dairy products, such as yogurt and low-fat cot
quantities if you are not lactose intoler
have other dietary restrictions.

eat

in limited

tage cheese,
do not

ant or
o

If you

are

diabetic,

fast, and avoid
could include
cheese. You

eat more

sweets

a

protein

of all kinds. Breakfast

whole-wheat

can

These foods will

also

eat

grains for break
proteins and grains

and whole

rice crackers with cottage
other proteins, such as nut butters.

bagel,

or

provide long-lasting

fuel

throughout

without drastic increases in blood sugar. Natural
such as stevia, also are available that can satisfy your

ings
o

while

Avoid

not

sweet,

increasing

starchy, oily

your

blood-sugar

the

day

sweeteners,
sweet crav

levels.

breakfast items such

as

donuts

or

pas

tries.
o

Taking a natural supplement or daily vitamins may be appropri
ate, especially if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not getting all the nutrients you need
from your regular diet. (Review the section on vitamins and nat
ural supplements earlier in this book for more information.)

Remainder of

Morning

and Afternoon

If your work takes you away from home, you can still find simple,
easy ways to strengthen and fortify your healing system, even

Getting

269

Started

though your schedule may be hectic. Even if you stay at home, try
to incorporate the following activities into your morning routine.

Breathing, Relaxation, Guided Imagery,
Meditation, Quiet Reflection, or Prayer
Throughout the day, because of your mind’s influence on your heal
ing system, which operates best in a calm, quiet, and relaxed inter
nal environment, it is important to keep your mind calm, cool, and
collected. Breathing, relaxation, guided imagery, meditation, quiet
reflection, and prayer are ideal methods for helping to keep your
mind tranquil. The more you practice these methods, the easier it
will be for you to retain your composure and keep your healing sys
tem

•

strong and vibrant.
Take short, 30-second
hour

to

ods for

calm your mind

to

one-minute breaks

by practicing

at

least

one or more

once

an

of the meth

breathing, relaxation, guided imagery, meditation, quiet
prayer that

described in this book. In the

reflection,

or

beginning,

you may need

options

what works best for you. After you have
that works for you, learn one or more of the other

found

to

one

techniques,

as

to

experiment

well. I

usually

recommend

a

During

with several of these

out

one-week trial, until you
have noted its positive benefits.
at

least

find

are

stressful times,

are

giving

technique

comfortable with it and

when you feel

or

each

yourself becoming

losing your composure (especially in the presence of
person), momentarily excuse yourself and retreat to a
safe, peaceful place. Once you are out of harm’s way, practice
one or more of these peaceful, calming techniques. After you
or

upset
another

have calmed down, you will be in
with your situation.
One of the tricks

a

much better

position

to

deal

this strategy is learning how to recognize
first beginning to lose your composure. When you
to

when you are
lose your composure, in addition

will

most

likely experience

to

your mental

one or more

toms:

•

Rapid, fearful,

or

angry

thoughts

of the

agitation,

following

you

symp

270

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

Shallow, rapid breathing

Rapid

heartbeat

Increased

perspiration

stomach

~

Queasy

~‘

Weak knees

(“butterflies

in your

stomach”)

From your earlier

reading, you might recognize these symp
fight-or-flight response, which, if allowed to
continue or escalate, can interfere with your healing system and
cause harm to your body, especially if they are sustained over a
long period of time.
toms as

part of the

In my work as a doctor, these strategies are particularly helpful.
For example, I sometimes meet new patients who have a lot of anger

and

are

quite

upset

at

“the medical

system”

in

general

and doctors in

particular. They may be upset for other reasons, too, of which I may
not be aware. In these situations, I am a prime target for their anger.
Sometimes, the
angry emotions.

slightest thing I say can trigger a huge explosion of
Naturally, this reaction from a patient will cause a

of fear and anger to well up inside of me, too. In this state, I
easily retaliate with fear and anger of my own, but I try to stay
composed. When I notice my heart rate speeding up, my breathing

wave

could

getting shallower and rapid, and my mind becoming agitated, I excuse
myself and quickly retreat to the safety of another room. There, I close
my eyes and do one or more of the following: breathing, meditation,
relaxation, imagery, or prayer. I do this until I feel my breathing and
heart rate slow down, and I am able to regain my composure. Usually,
a

maximum of five minutes is all that I need.

back

to see

the

patient

who has

comfortable, and better able
Water for Your
Your

lates

to

Afterward, when

provoked
help the patient.
me, I

am more

I go

relaxed and

Healing System

body is 70 percent water, and because water constantly circu
throughout every cell, tissue, and organ in your body, the more

you introduce into your system, the faster it can distribute
nutrients and eliminate toxins. Drinking water and fluids is one of

water

the best ways

to

strengthen

and

fortif~,’ your healing

system.

Getting

271

Started

the

Throughout
herbal

Drink six

*

water or

other fluids, such

as

juices

or

to

of

eight glasses
day.

water,

or

the

equivalent,

over

the

of each

course

A

day, sip

teas.

Snack for Your

Mid-Morning

You

might

you

to

need

take

a

light, mid-morning

late lunch,

a

Healing System

or

snack if your work requires
a fast metabolism and are

if you have

prone to blood-sugar swings. It is important to listen to your body
when it comes to getting the nutrition you need to function at your

best. Here’s

*

Don’t

*

You

some

if you’re

eat

eat

can

herbal

tea or

not

Lunch for Your

carrots,

wholesome crackers,

if you feel you need

beverage

or

an

to eat some

Heating System

people, eating a healthful,

most

snacks:

hungry.

fresh fruits,
other

morning

before lunch.

thing

For

advice about mid

wholesome lunch is

important.

In many cultures around the world, lunch is the main meal of the
day. To ensure a steady flow of nutrients and optimum fuel for your

healing system, take the time out of your busy schedule each day to
eat lunch. Skipping lunch is generally not recommended. And just
as proper food is essential fuel for your healing system, eating that
food in a way that optimizes its digestion is equally important. The
following suggestions should be helpful:
*

Avoid fats and oils,

Try

a

cup

*

Try

a

hearty salad,

*

If you

or

tomatoes,
can

often be

are

a

snack foods, which

are

grains,
not

a

diabetic

or

toppings.

any other lean pro
meal in itself. Eat breads made

complete

such

oily dressings

healthful sandwich with fresh lettuce,

sprouts, cheese, tofu,

from whole
If you

to

but avoid rich,

carbohydrates,

eat

processed
digest.

as

bowl of soup.

*

*

well

and often difficult

heavy

tein

as

as

tempeh,

or

wheat, barley, rye, and

or

on

a

oats.

sugar-restricted diet,

a

fruit

272

Activating

dessert will

You

can

lowing
Here

take

adequate

water or

Healing System

balance of essential nutrients,

trace

another

When You’re Sick

elements, fluids, and fiber.

liquid

with

or

immediately

fol

your meal.

are a

If you

an

vitamins, minerals,

including
o

provide

Your

few

more

tips

for

eating

lunch:

the

o

workplace or at home, take a break and focus
solely on eating and digesting your food. Turn off your com
puter, TV, or radio, and make sure you aren’t talking on the
phone or reading a magazine or newspaper when you eat.

o

When you are eating, your body needs to
process of digestion. It should be a time of

are at

concentrate on

rest

the

and relaxation,

and you should devote all your attention to the process of
eating. If you continue to talk on the phone, drive, or work on
the computer while you
your

body’s

response

to

are

eating,

you won’t be able

the food you

are

consuming.

to

feel

When

your mind is in more than one place at a time, it is hard to fully
taste your food. It also is easy to overeat and experience indiges

tion under these circumstances.
o

If you

eat

with coworkers,

family,

or

friends, lunch

can

be

a

pleasant social occasion. Avoid arguments, conflicts, or talk of
business or finances. The mood and atmosphere should be
and

uplifting. Your emotional
eating affects your digestion.
pleasant

Consider

an

Afternoon

Studies show that

state at

the time of your

Nap for Your Healing System

Americans

sleep deprived. Sleep depriva
including heart
disease. It has also been linked to accident-prone behaviors. Your
healing system performs most efficiently when you are sleeping or
resting, and an afternoon nap can be an effective way to help
strengthen and fortify it. Most cultures around the world eat their
largest meal at lunch time, followed by a nap, or siesta. This is a
time-tested method to help optimize digestion. If you can, take a
light nap after lunch.
most

tion has been linked

to numerous

are

chronic diseases,

Gethng

273

Started

In the Afternoon

and Hobbies for Your

Play, Fun,

Healing System

health-promoting effects of a play
ful attitude, a sense of humor, and the ability to have fun. Bob Hope
and George Burns, both famous comedians, each lived for 100 years
by cultivating light-hearted attitudes. They pursued lives of fun and
laughter while they tried to make others laugh. And as we discussed

painful, life-threatening disease with laughter and a little
vitamin C. Humor and a light-hearted attitude can add years to your
life, and they are powerful stimulants for your healing system.
Keeping your spirits light throughout the day is important. If you
are working long, hard hours or are having an extremely difficult time
in your

a

life,

you don’t have

ates

tension, which

tem

and lead

to

be serious all the time. Seriousness

cre

drain vital

energies away from your healing sys
to pain. Keeping your spir
only
its light will have a powerful strengthening and fortifying effect on your
healing system. Here are a few tips for keeping your spirits high:
~

Do

at

can

not

least

to

one

fun

preferably longer.
•

o

disease, but also

activity

Here

are some

Find

something funny
family or coworkers.

Watch

each

to

day,

for

least 30 minutes,

at

suggestions:

laugh

at.

Share

a

joke

with your

comedy movie, or engross yourself in a favorite per
sonal hobby, such as painting, sewing, quilting, jewelry~ or
model-airplane building.
a

listen

•

Play

•

Dance

•

Play with

•

Go

or

uplifting

music.

your favorite music.

to

to a

to

children.

musical

production,

a

movie,

event.
•

Participate

•

Read

•

Write in

a

in your favorite sport.

favorite book.
a

journal.

a

play,

or a

sporting

274

Activating

Social Activities for Your
Man is

social

a

to

other

which

can

lead

linked

to

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Healing System

Healing System

and for this

creature,

connected

Your

reason,

people. Conversely,

it is

important

social isolation

creates

to

stay

stress,

disease, both mental and physical. For example,
heart disease, the number-one killer in the Western world, has been
to

feelings

of social isolation. Studies have shown that heart

who live alone fare much

patients

have connections with
this

the

point,
most

family, friends,

consider that,

confinement, which

is

worse

even

nothing

than heart

patients

who

pets. To further illustrate
hardened
criminals, solitary
among
more than social isolation, is one of
or

dreaded of all forms of punishment.

Social support is
healing system. Plan

important to help strengthen and fortify your
spend time each day in an activity that sup
feelings of being connected to others. Try one or more of
to

ports your
the following:

n

Make

family
o

Tell

doing
the

to

call

or

write

a

close, trusted friend

or

member.

loved

a

effort

special

a

so

member that you love them, even if
first feels awkward or phony. The more you do it,

one or a

at

family

real it will feel, and you will soon become comfortable
it. What you give comes back to you, so you are really

more

saying
only telling yourself that you love yourself.
applies to any other loving act of kindness.
Give

hugs

The

same

principle

0

family members, friends, and coworkers.
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do it for their benefit, even though they will like it, but
for yours. Nothing heals like love, and nothing stimulates your
healing system more powerfully than love. Love starts with you.

o

If you have the time, you can volunteer at least once a week at a
senior citizensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; center, hospital, library, school, local day-care
center,

or

to

one

organizations.
to

any of

a

your

of hundreds of other charitable and
You could also lend your

number of state, national, and

tions. Make

community
energies
international organiza

special

talents and

commitment to take the time to get involved in
of these types of activities. Your healing system will
benefit from these activities, so do them first for yourself, know
a

one or more

ing

also that others will later benefit from your

generosity.

Getting

275

Started

Rest and Alone Time for Your
In

sharp

contrast to

Healing System

what I recommend for social connectedness, I

also feel it is

important to learn how to socially withdraw, to rest and
be alone. Many people spend practically every waking moment tak
ing care of others, or they are involved in too many activities that
leave them emotionally, mentally, and physically drained. This pat

fatigue, “burnout,” and even serious ill
ness. If you are one of these people, it is imperative to learn how to
say “No” to others and carve out a chunk of daily time for yourself.
To rejuvenate your health, recharge your batteries, and strengthen
and fortify your healing system, doing this is a basic necessity of life.
tern can

Here

o

result in chronic

are a

Each

few

day,

tips:
take 10

room
o

in your house

You may wish

listen
o

be alone,

shutting yourself
onslaught of others. Make
arrangements to have trusted family or friends perform your
duties and take on your responsibilities during this period. Find
a safe, quiet, uplifting place, either outdoors in nature, or in a
15 minutes

to

off from the world and the

to

or

music,

or

apartment.

this time

to use

do

to

constant

to

meditate, breathe,

pray,

paint,

absolutely nothing.

Honoring your special time alone, which your healing system
requires to maintain its strength and vigor, is important. If you
don’t insist on the right to be alone to rest and rejuvenate, your
healing system will have difficulty functioning optimally.

In the

Evening

Dinner for Your

Healing System

Try not to eat too heavy, or too late. Eating heavy or late will cause
indigestion and disturb sleep, causing you to wake up tired and low
on energy in the morning. In addition, eat peacefully, without the
TV or stereo blaring, and without discussing business or other
potentially stressful topics. Keep the family dinnertime conversa
tions light and harmonious, which will improve digestion while it
strengthens and fortifies your healing system.
Here are a few suggestions for dinnertime meals:

276

Your

Activating

Try
can

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Healing System

vegetable soup, such as squash, split
be hearty, nourishing, and soothing.
a

pea,

or

carrot,

which

dinner salad, with

leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach,
and one or more vegetables, including tomatoes, cucumbers,
olives, mushrooms, artichoke hearts, or garbanzo beans (chick
peas).

n

Try

a

u

You

can

barley,
etable

cooked whole

grains, such as fluffy brown rice or
separately or mixed together with a veg

eat

or
or

organic pasta,
protein side dish.

vegetable casserole or mixed-vegetable stir fry can be tasty and
nourishing. You can add tofu, a touch of light cheese, or another
lean protein. Minimize the use of heavy oils and butter when

A

LI

you cook these dishes.

You may also have a light dessert such as yogurt, sherbet, or
fresh fruit. (If you are diabetic, you can have a light dessert with

o

a

sugar

Drink

o

water

Emotional
As

we

substitute.)
either before

Well-Being

or

for Your

discussed earlier, emotions

felt in the

after dessert.

Healing System

are

powerful

sensations of energy
to be released

body.
healthy living,
expressed in your life. If they are suppressed and allowed to
remain in your body longer than is necessary, or dragged around as
energy-draining emotional baggage, emotions can severely hinder
the work of your healing system and can contribute to illness. To
know how you are feeling at any given moment, and then have the
courage to share these feelings with others, is one of the most pow
erful ways to strengthen and fortify your healing system. Here are
some suggestions for expressing your emotions in a beneficial
way:
For

most

emotions need

and

o

To learn

helpful

to

to

healthy way, it is often
participate in group activi

express your emotions in

join

a

group and learn

to

a

Join a group that meets at least once a week, or, if you have
the time, more often. The group could be a support group or a
therapeutic group. It should be a group that you feel comfort
ties.

able and safe with,

a

group that you feel will

not

sit in

judgment

Getting

277

Started

of you should you choose to air your â&#x20AC;&#x153;dirty laundryâ&#x20AC;? in public.
Many non-alcoholics join AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), which
has groups in nearly every major U.S. city, just for the sake of

being
time

in

to

ment to
*

If you

a

group and

find

out

to

share their

about groups in your

participate

are not

learning

in

area,

feelings.

and make

a

Take the
commit

one.

group, or you cannot find one in
counseling is available and might be

comfortable in

a

professional
through your house of worship, local YMCA or YWCA,
One-on-one counseling,
or other community organizations.
especially with an effective counselor, is also a valuable way to
express your feelings. Find out about counselors in your area,
and make a determined effort to participate in this activity.

your area,

offered

*

Get

a

small notebook and pen, and

start

writing about your feel

ings. Writing in a journal, expressing all that is inside of you and
are feeling, can often be an effective way to release
your emotions, your thoughts, and deepest feelings, even if you
write for only 5 to 10 minutes each day.
all that you

*

day, in a conversation with your family, friends, or loved
ones, speak from your heart and share your deepest feelings. If
you are not comfortable doing this, write a letter to someone
with whom you wish to share your deepest feelings.
Each

Spiritual Well-Being for Your Healing System
healing system functions best when you are spiritually healthy.
Many physical diseases have their origins in the spiritual realm. For
example, when your spirits are continually down, you can become
depressed, which is a form of mental disease. As noted earlier,
depression has been shown to contribute to heart disease, diabetes,

Your

cancer,

and many other serious ailments.

If you

are an

being. Try
yourself. Ponder

atheist,

you

to connect to a

can

higher

the fact that

still

enjoy spiritual

health and well

or

force other than

cause,

purpose,

intelligent, powerful, creative
this
has
on
planet. Doing this will take a huge bur
put you
energy
den of stress off your shoulders and allow your healing system to
work more effectively. Thinking that everything in the world and
your life depends solely on your constant mental vigilance and surveil
some

278

Activating

lance

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

tension and stress, drains vital

energies, and can be emo
tionally
physically exhausting.
conspire against your
and
lead
can
to
eventually
healing system
physical illness.
If you believe in God or a higher power, your plight is not much
creates

and

These factors

different from that of the atheist. Doubts about God and the Divine
still

might bombard you when you encounter rough waters or come
up against a brick wall, and so it is necessary to continually renew
your faith many times throughout each day, and ponder the mean
ing and purpose of your existence.
o

This week, take

brief respite from your work and hectic sched
ule, and think about your life and its significance. Think about
a

higher

power, a divine, creative, intelligent energy at work in
the universe and your life. Do this for at least 5 to 10 minutes
a

each
o

day.

If you

are

comfortable

doing

so,

pray for 5

to

10 minutes each

day.
o

Before

going to bed, take 5 to 10 minutes each night to read
scriptures or other related books that can uplift your spirits.

Sleep

for Your

Sleep

is fundamental

Healing System
all

living things and is an intrinsic part of
rhythms
cycles of life. Sleep is a required physiolog
ical activity in all living species, a basic biological principle of life.
Some animals hibernate and go into a cave to sleep for months at a
time to restore their bodiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; health and energies; humans generally
require between 8 and 10 hours of sleep each day.
Your body requires regular sleep to restore vital energies and to
heal. As you may recall, your healing system does its best work when
your body is resting. Regular, restful sleep is one the most potent
things you can do to strengthen and fortif~y your healing system.
When sleep is disrupted, healing system function is compromised,
and ill health can develop. It is not surprising that as sleep depriva
tion and insomnia increase in epidemic proportions in America, the
number of chronic, stress-related diseases, including heart disease,
high blood pressure, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, is also
increasing.
the natural

to

and

279

Getting

Started

To

ensure

~

Get up

proper

will

each

early

Sleeping
cause

sleep,

try the

following:

morning.

late disturbs the natural
to

go
that

you

unnatural

rhythms

of your

body

and

bed late. This pattern will perpetuate
can be harmful to your healing system.

to

an

cycle
Getting up early improves your chances of having an active,
full day. Having a long, full day will improve your chances of
going to sleep at night at a decent hour. A restful, good night’s
sleep will allow you to awaken early each day feeling refreshed
and renewed, with abundant energy~
*

Don’t engage in
to

sleep. (Such

agitating
activities

disturbing activities before
include watching the news or
or

you go

violent

movies.)
*

Avoid

late-night

family

members.

arguments

or

conflicts with your partner

*

Make

sure

your bed is comfortable.

•

Make

sure

your bedroom

and

neat,

peaceful.

or

A clean,

or

the

place where you sleep is clean,
orderly environment reduces con

fused, chaotic mental stimuli and allows the brain, mind, and
nervous

much
•

to

system

deeper,

If you live in
consider

relax

more

a

effectively. All
quality of sleep.

more

restful

noisy place,

using

comfortable

where traffic
ear

plugs

or

to

this

brings

about

a

other noise is

ensure a

likely,
good night’s

sleep.
‘Whenever I travel

large, congested, bustling cities, and I’m
constant noise of the city at night, I use a simple
by
pair of earplugs while I sleep. Instead of waking up fatigued,
foggy-headed, grumpy, irritable, and low on energy, thanks to the
earplugs, I can wake up feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to
greet the new day with enthusiasm.
disturbed

•

Make

Avoid

the air you breathe when you sleep is fresh and clean.
dusty, foul-smelling, stale air. A good, fresh breeze can do

sure

wonders
•

Don’t

to

the

to

eat a

ach and

improve

the

late dinner

heavily

laden

quality

of your

sleep.

just before you go to sleep. A full stom
digestive system will put pressure on the

280

Activating

Your

Healing System

When You’re Sick

diaphragm and lungs and interfere with normal, natural breath
ing. Many people with sleep disturbances and other illnesses are
overweight and have poor, late-night eating habits that cause
indigestion and interfere with the quality of their sleep.
D

beverage before you go to sleep. A warm beverage
soothing and relaxing, improving digestion, and helping

Try

a warm

can

be

to

settle down the

peppermint,
o

can

nerves.

be

Relaxation, gentle

Herbal

teas,

such

as

chamomile

or

particularly comforting.

breathing, meditation, imagery,

calm and relax the mind and

or

prayer

can

system. When they
before bedtime, these methods can be a gentle

help
are performed
and soothing way

to

induce

deep,

nervous

restful

sleep.

to soft, soothing music. Doing this can be relaxing and
restful, and can help induce gentle, effective sleep.

o

Listen

o

inspirational novel, book, or scripture, or
uplifting material. This activity can be comforting
and reassuring, and a pleasant way to wind down and relax
before sleep. Some people I know read the Yellow Pages or
Webster’s Dictionary to help them get to sleep. This method
works, I am told, because these books are so boring!

Before bed, read

some

an

other

The
seem

make

suggestions included in this “Getting Started” section may
simple and insignificant, but, when taken together, they will

difference in your life and the functioning of
your healing system. Just five minutes a day of meditation, an uplift
ing phone conversation with a friend, a cup of delicious soup for
an

enormous

lunch, and

ing

a

good night’s sleep can have a great impact on your heal
physical, mental, and emotional health.

system and your

conquering

Common

Health Conditions

youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find strategies and approaches for tapping
into, enhancing,
strengthening your healing system to heal a
variety of specific health problems. Keep in mind, however, that
these recommendations are only guidelines and are not intended to
replace responsible, intelligent, personalized professional healthcare.
Additionally, because every person is a unique individual, not every
n

this section,

and

of these recommendations may be effective for you. I have pur
posely avoided prescribing exact amounts, dosages, or schedules for
one

working with your healing system,
no simple formulas or recipes will work equally well for everybody.
In the art and science of medicine and healing, every treatment and
therapy needs to be adjusted to meet the unique needs of each
person. However, by following the recommendations that follow and
incorporating those presented in previous chapters, your chances for
success will be greatly increased. Remember that with each malady
treatments,

because, when

listed, what

you

are

is recommended is

not

intended

to

be all-inclusive;

options might be available for your problem.
For your convenience, the following list of health problems is

additional

organized

in the

simplest

way I

knowâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;according

to

the various

282

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

systems and anatomical regions in the body. This list, while not
all-inclusive, represents the most common maladies presented to me
as a

primary-care physician.

If I have omitted

you may be currently suffering with
the general recommendations given

the “Resources” section

healing
success

to

system

or are

a

health

problem that
just follow

interested in,

throughout

the book, and

see

the end. If you learn to work with your
overcome your health problems, you will achieve
at

in your quest for greater health.

Skin Problems
Your skin is
are

generally

in diseased

lacks

reflection of your general state of health.
healthy exhibit healthy skin tone and color.

a

weakened

or

states,

the skin is often

pale

or

People who
Conversely,
mottled and

sheen. ‘When you have liver disease, for example,
skin
becomes
jaundiced and takes on a yellowish appearance.
your
Skin rashes are also often signs of deeper problems. For this reason,
a

healthy

doctors have
to

deeper

traditionally relied
problems.

upon the skin for

diagnostic

clues

internal

Abrasions, Contusions, Lacerations, and Punctures
These four types of injuries are among the most common that the
skin sustains, and they are usually present whenever physical trauma
of any kind

occurs.

Abrasions

where the skin is

scraped, revealing the raw
under-surfaces of the skin. Abrasions most commonly occur from
falls on pavement or asphalt, and, although painful, they usually
heal up uneventfully if they are kept clean and dry. Topical aloe vera,
turmeric, and other herbal and natural plant and mineral salves may
also be helpful to prevent infection and speed the work of your heal
ing system with abrasions.
Contusions

marks

on

occur

are

bruises that appear in the form of “black and blue”

the skin, which reflect broken blood vessels underneath the

surface. Contusions may be
they usually do not result in

accompanied by swelling
a

and

pain,

but

break of the skin. Unless there is dam

underlying tissues, your healing system can repair the damages
age
caused by contusions in a relatively short time. Ice applied for the first
to

24 hours

283

Common Health Conditions

Conquering

swelling, followed by warm salt-water soaks or
compresses, can assist your healing system in this work.
Lacerations are full, linear-shaped breaks in the skin where
bleeding occurs. Stitches may be required if a laceration is extensive
and the bleeding is profuse. Once the edges of the wound are
brought together, your healing system takes over and heals the
wound, in many cases with barely a scar. Even large lacerations that
are not stitched will still heal with the help of your healing system,
but they will generally take longer and may cause a scar.
Puncture wounds are stab-type wounds that pierce the skin. If
they are not too deep, and with proper care, your healing system can
usually mend puncture wounds quite easily.
to

minimize

Abscesses
Abscesses
infection.
drain

an

in the skin,

swellings

are

Many

most

often caused

by

a

bacterial

surgeons will lance an abscess with a scalpel, or
a needle. But if you begin treatment in the ear

abscess with

lier stages and work with your healing system by applying warm salt
soaks and pharmaceutical-grade clay (bentonite) packs, many
abscesses will

disappear

on

salt-water compresses, and
assist your

healing

system in

their

own.

Natural

sunlight,

diet

can
non-oily
healing abscesses.

a

also be

aloe

vera,

helpful

to

Acne
Acne

occurs

in both males and

females,

most

commonly during

the

of puberty but it may linger for many years. Acne is caused by
minute infections that occur in the oily buildup of the hair follicles.

onset

If scratched

or

picked,

disfiguring. Acne occurs
tragic consequences

have

The
for

same

natural

permanent scarring and be
commonly on the face, which can

acne can

most

cause

if scarring and

treatments

disfigurement

for abscesses

alcohol,

can

result.

also be effective

also be

helpful. Oily,
Drying agents, including
fatty, rich diets, along with stress, can make acne worse. People with
naturally oily skin need to pay particular attention to their diets. A
macrobiotic diet (a very low-fat, plant-based diet that originated in
Japan) can often clear up stubborn cases of acne in a short time. In
acne.

can

many cases, conventional medicines may also be necessary. These

medicines include

topical drying

agents, such

as

those that contain

284

Activating

benzoyl peroxide,
vitamin-A

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

internal

preparations, such as accutane,
derivative, which, when prescribed under the care of
or

knowledgeable dermatologist,

can

be

highly

a
a

effective.

Boils, Carbuncles, Furuncles
These

infectious

swellings in the skin similar to abscesses. Many
start with just a simple ingrown hair, but they may become irritat
ed, painful, and often quite large, especially if they are squeezed or
picked. They can also become unsightly, especially if they are on the
face

are

shoulder.

or

Natural

that work best with your healing system
compressing in warm, concentrated salt solu

treatments

include

soaking
applying clay packs, exposing to sunlight, treating with alco
and other drying agents, and keeping all dirt, oil, and bacteria
or

tions,
hol

away from the affected area. If boils, carbuncles, or furuncles are
severe and are allowed to
progress, antibiotics and/or lancing may be
necessary

to

help

your

healing

system

repair

these conditions.

Burns
the skin

relatively common, but if they are severe and
extensive enough, they can cause much harm, even death. Firstdegree burns cause redness, pain, and swelling, but no blistering.
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When blistering occurs, second-degree burns have been sustained.
Third-degree burns, the most serious type of burn, result when
nerve endings are burned and the sensation of pain is lost. If
you
sustain a burn and it hurts, consider yourself lucky because it means
that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a third-degree burn.
Burns can be extremely painful, but, if they are not extensive,
your healing system can handle them with little intervention. Burns
should be kept clean, dry, and free from excessive moisture and dirt.
Topical agents that are cooling, including ice in the initial stages,
generally reduce swelling and pain. Antibiotic cremes, such as
Silvadene cream, or a natural agent such as zinc oxide, can keep the
skin from drying out and cracking and prevent infection. Aloe, vine
gar, honey, and bee propolis may also be effective.
If the burn is extensive, covering it with light gauze dressings
and nonstick bandages, and then leaving it undisturbed for at least
24 to 48 hours, possibly longer, might be necessary. Any dressing
Burns

to

are

Conquering

that gets
suffocate

285

Common Health Conditions

wet,

however, needs

healing

tissues and

tions may also be

to

be

changed

because

wet

dressings

promote infection. Pain medica
for one to two days or more. For

can

appropriate

second-degree burns with blisters, it is best not to pop the blisters
because they serve as a natural protective barrier that your healing
system employs to protect the new skin that is forming underneath.
In the later stages of healing burns, you can assist your healing
system with natural topical applications such as aloe vera, comfrey
root poultices, vitamin E cream, calendula, and turmeric cream.

Cysts
Cysts

look very similar

ic and have
ment

a

tendency

is similar

to

abscesses, but they

toward

to treatment

are

periodic swelling.

often

more

chron

Conservative

for abscesses and boils,

including

treat

soak

using drying agents. Cysts may need to be lanced
ing, sunlight,
and drained if they become excessively large or intrusive. Once they
and

have been lanced

the

complete

or

drained, your

healing

system

can

take

over

and

healing process.

Follicuiftis
common condition represents inflammation and infection of
the hair follicles, hence the name, folliculitis. Folliculitis looks like

This

acne,

such

but it may show up in areas of the skin away from the face,
in the groin area or under the armpits. It can be very painful

as

itchy and is best treated with salt soaks, clay packs, and natural
sunlight. If folliculitis is severe and is allowed to progress, antibiotics
may also be required.
and

Impetigo
bacteria and poor skin hygiene, is a rapidly
infection with a brownish-colored, crusty rash. Impetigo
is common in children and may be spread at day-care centers.

Impetigo,
spreading

caused

by

good hygiene help to eliminate the organisms that
cause
impetigo has been contracted, antibiotics
may be necessary to eliminate it. Salt soaks, clay packs, aloe vera,
and sun baths can also be effective if it is caught early on. You can
easily prevent impetigo by observing good skin hygiene.

Bathing

and

this infection. Once

286

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

Skin Rashes
characteristic rashes appear on the
make
their way out of the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s deeper structures. We
as toxins
these
rashes in childhood illnesses such as measles,
see
commonly
In certain

generalized infections,

skin

chicken pox. rubella (German measles), and other viral diseases. If
contracted at an early age, these conditions, although uncomfort

able,

are

usually self-limiting

tions. Certain food

allergies,

and do little harm in Western

and

immune-system

may also show up on the skin in the form of
nutritional deficiencies, such as pellagra, can show up
the skin.

lupus,

popula

disorders such
a

as

rash. Even
rash

as a

on

While you are treating any skin rash, it is important to work
with your healing system by addressing the underlying causes of the
rash.

Drinking plenty of fluids will support your healing system in
eliminating toxins if an underlying disease is present. There are
many other methods to work with your healing system in these
cases, such as getting plenty of rest, eating lightly, and taking certain
herbs and plant remedies. Natural salves, ointments, and clay plas
ters applied topically to the skin may also be helpful. However, it is
important to remember that a rash may have deeper origins than
just the skin.
Because of its rich nerve supply, your skin is highly sensitive
to pain and itching. When a rash itches, you will invariably scratch
it, which will only make matters worse. An important part of the
treatment of any rash is to stop the itch so the problem doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
escalate while you are working to discover and treat the underlying
causes. In addition to soothing topical creams, such as those that
aloe, calendula, chamomile,

contain
creams

and ointments that contain

or

hydrocortisone,

the-counter conventional medicines, such

gesics,
from

can

also

effectively

eliminate

turmeric, conventional

as

itching

and other

anti histamines

or

over-

anal

and prevent the rash

escalating.

Allergic

Rashes

Rashes

can

appear in response to skin irritants and chemicals, such
as those found in various sunscreen agents,
soaps, and solvents.
Rashes can even appear in response to naturally occurring sub
stances

found in

plants,

such

as

in mangoes,

poison ivy,

and

poison

Conquering

287

Common Health Conditions

complications from
stings, spider bites, and jellyfish stings.

oak. Skin

allergies

including

bee

can

also result

as

insect bites,

again, while you are treating these rashes and controlling
the itch and spread of the rash, the key to eliminating them perma
nently is to identify the offending agent and avoid all further con
tact with this agent. Many remedies, both conventional and natural,
Once

helpful in these cases. If you remove the offending agent, and
control the itching and scratching, your heating system can usually
can

be

heal the rash and

restore

your skin

to

its natural

state

of health.

Infectious Rashes

Many

rashes

are

the result of skin infections,

infections such

as
gal
parasites (including

(which

cold sores) also

causes

most

commonly,

fun-

athleteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foot and ringworm. Bacterial infections,
scabies), and viruses such as herpes simplex
can cause

rashes. In each

case,

preven

avoiding infection in the first place. For example,
and
bacteria
most
prefer wet, warm, dark places to breed and
fungi
flourish. The feet, groin, buttocks, abdomen, and underarms are
common sites of infection from these organisms. Environmental
factors also play a role. For example, infectious rashes from fungi
and bacteria are more common in the tropics, or during summer,
tion is the

key

to

when the weather is often
Once

including

a

more

humid.

skin infection is

tea-tree

accurately diagnosed, natural remedies,
oil, clay, and other drying agents, in addition to a

wide range of medicated creams and ointments, are readily available
to treat it. Of course, in difficult cases, additional conventional med
icines may be

required.

This is

the skin clean and free from

particularly

true

for scabies.

Keeping

moisture, and

allowing it to
breathe and be exposed to fresh air and adequate sunlight are the
best approaches for working with your healing system to prevent
excess

and eliminate skin infections.

Nerve-Related Rashes
Because the skin is

intimately

connected

to

the

nervous system,
have
their origins in
rashes
that
chronic
donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t
easily
many
go away
such conditions as chronic anxiety, stress, tension, or other emotion

al and nervous-system disorders. These are often classified
related rashes, and they include the following:

as nerve

288

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

Eczema
Eczema is

chronic skin condition characterized

by intense itching
a scaly, spreading
at
can
disfiguring. To aid
your healing system, you can best treat this condition by applying
topical soothing creams, taking pain medications if needed, using
herbs or medicines that calm the nervous system, and eliminating
a

and

rash that

times

be

caffeine and nicotine from your system. Emollient
ous oily preparations applied continuously to the
prevent the
occur with
times of

constant
eczema.

and

drying

out

creams

and vari

eczema can

and loss of natural

body

help

oils that

Because this skin condition flares up

during

also
stress-management
be very effective in controlling it. Eating a wholesome diet and
drinking lots of fluids can also be helpful with this condition.
stress

techniques

anxiety,

can

Psoriasis
Psoriasis is

a

chronic skin condition that is

around the knees, elbows,

during

times of

anxiety

common

in the

areas

and back. Psoriasis flares up
and tension. Foods that stimulate the nerv

scalp, feet,

system, such as caffeine and nicotine, can also aggravate this
condition. Sunlight is often prescribed for psoriasis, as are suppres
ous

sive medications and various corticosteroid

creams.

Addressing

the

underlying causes through such methods as diet and stress-manage
ment training, while gently relieving the symptoms of itching and
scratching, can often reverse even long-standing cases of psoriasis.
Shingles
caused by the H. Zoster virus, which stays in your body in
dormant
a
stage but can flare up during times of stress and/or
immune dysfunction. To aid your healing system, you can best treat

Problems of the Head
Disorders and symptoms in the head are very common. Because the
head contains the brain, which is sensitive to subtle changes in your

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

internal environment, these

in other parts of the

body.

For

problems may reflect imbalances
example, with anemia, not enough

red blood cells and oxygen reach the brain, and headaches may
occur. In addition, if you have anemia, you might be unable to think

clearly. Weakness, along with dizziness and fainting, especially when
you are standing up or making sudden movements with your head,
may also

occur.

Proper treatment of problems in the head requires understand
the
underlying causes and working with your healing system to
ing
correct these problems.
Dizziness and
Dizziness

and

Vertigo
vertigo

are

two

common

symptoms

that, like

headaches, may have simple causes or may represent more serious
conditions, such as brain tumors, impending stroke, heart problems,

dehydration, anemia, or infection. They may also signal a metabol
ic problem, such as low blood sugar, as in diabetes.
The most common underlying causes of dizziness and vertigo
include dietary imbalance, including excess caffeine or nicotine; prob
lems with sugar metabolism; stress; lack of sleep; muscle tension in the
face, neck, and upper back;

problems (including

a

motion

persistent

sickness; middle- and inner-ear
infection); and dehydration.

viral

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When symptoms are severe, nausea and vomiting can result.
Treatment should be directed toward the underlying causes. If a
proper medical evaluation determines

that may be occurring in other parts of your body. For this reason,
you should not ignore headaches, or merely suppress them with pain

medication, particularly if they

are

persistent.

Headaches

might occur as the result of fatigue, dehydration,
indigestion, sinus infections, ear infections, having over

anemia,

done certain foods
a

substances such

or

as

alcohol and caffeine, and

result of other conditions,

monly

Headaches also

including stress.
during regular monthly cycles

occur

menstruation. More serious

encephalitis, stroke,
result of head

trauma

the brain, caused

by

causes

and brain
that

com

of ovulation and

of headaches include

meningitis,

Headaches

also be the

tumor.

causes

as

can

increased pressure and

swelling

in

fluid.

Your

healing system can heal most headaches once the underlying
problems are corrected. However, if a headache is severe, persistent,
keeps you awake at night, or interferes with your ability to work or
function, it is time to go and see your doctor to be properly evaluated.
Cluster headaches appear predominantly in males and are similar
to migraines in their cause and treatment. Cluster headaches com
monly appear around the eye on one side of the face, and they come
and go in waves of pain. They are also influenced by stress and
dietary imbalances, and they often respond well to dietary modera
tion, including decreased caffeine and nicotine, and increased fluids.
Massage, particularly of the upper back, neck, and facial muscles,
along with acupuncture, chiropractic treatment, and gentle yoga
stretching can often help your healing system eliminate cluster
headaches.

Migraine

headaches

previously thought
the head, but
tension

to

recent

can

be

research has

headaches, only

more

and

disabling. Migraines were
by swelling in the blood vessels of
shown they are similar in origin to
prolonged and severe. Diet and

severe

be caused

lifestyle, in addition to hormonal fluctuations, may also be con
tributing factors. In their worst presentation, migraines, with their
symptoms of nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, and loss of bal

Conquering

force you to be incapacitated for hours and sometimes
time. You might temporarily require strong pain medica

ticularly of the upper back, neck, and facial muscles, acupuncture,
chiropractic treatment, and gentle yoga stretching are also often
effective. Migraine headaches can often be relieved by getting rid of
negative â&#x20AC;&#x153;emotional baggage,â&#x20AC;? taking soothing herbs that calm the
nerves and relax the muscles, and applying topical heat balms.
Tension headaches are caused by stress and tension; they also can
be related to dietary imbalances, including excesses of caffeine or
nicotine, and other factors. Conventional medicines may temporar

ily help relieve a tension headache, but most just suppress the pain.
Implementing diet and lifestyle changes that reduce tension and
stress, practicing daily stress-management techniques, and increas
ing fluids to eliminate toxins can all assist your healing system in
relieving tension headaches. Massage, particularly of the upper back,
neck, and facial muscles, in addition to acupuncture, chiropractic
treatment, and gentle yoga stretching, can also be effective. Tension
headaches are often relieved by soothing herbs such as feverfew and
chamomile, which calm the nerves and relax the muscles, and by
topically applied heat balms.
Head

Injury

Because the brain is

so

important,

head

injuries

can

have serious

consequences. With a severe head injury, prompt and responsible
action can mean the difference between life and death. When a con
cussion

occurs as a

result of head

of consciousness, the

possibility

trauma,

of

and there is associated loss

damage

to

internal

structures

exists, and immediate evaluation and medical attention

are
always
required. If no nausea, vomiting, lethargy, loss of memory, undue
sleepiness, or other neurological symptoms develop during a 24- to
48-hour period following a head injury, then there is a high degree
of probability that nothing serious has occurred internally. If no loss
of consciousness occurred during head trauma, it is also highly
unlikely that something serious has occurred. Anyone who has suf
fered a concussion, with reported loss of consciousness, should go

292

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

immediately to the nearest emergency room to rule out the possibil
ity of brain hemorrhage or other serious injury.
Amazingly, in spite of the potentially serious consequences, the
majority of head injuries are not serious and respond favorably to your
healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal repair and restoration mechanisms. As with
any other injury; however, your healing system works best when you
cooperate with it by getting plenty of rest and making sure you are
drinking enough fluids and eating wholesome, nutritious food.

Eye
Our eyes

bodies.

are

the

most

Additionally,

Disorders

dominant and

because

our

important

eyes

are so

sense

organs in

sensitive,

other parts of the body often affect them. In this regard,
a reflection of our overall general health. For instance,

our

problems
our

eyes

high

in
are

blood

erode and rupture the fragile blood vessels in the retina,
pressure
a condition that a doctor can diagnose with a simple
eye exam.
can

Diabetes, which also

changes in the appearance of the blood
vessels in the back of the eye, can similarly be detected from a simple
eye exam. Because our eyes are so important, a specialty in medicine,
known as ophthalmology, exists just to tend to their needs.
Many chronic eye conditions are related to underlying problems
elsewhere in the body, so these conditions are often preventable.
Many of these disorders often reflect poor overall health, and so
working with your healing system to improve your overall health
can often improve such eye conditions. For example, when I was a
flight surgeon in the U.S. Air Force, it was common knowledge that
even among young, healthy fighter pilots, those who smoked had
poorer night vision. They were considered a combat risk when they
were flying night missions because the increased carbon monoxide
and decreased oxygen in their blood as a result of smoking nega
tively affected their vision.
causes

Good nutrition is very important to the health of your eyes.
comes from beta carotene and is found in most

Vitamin A, which

yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, participates in the
istry of vision. Eating a diet rich in beta carotene, and taking

chem
herbal

Conquering

293

Common Health Conditions

bilberry extract, help promote the health of your
addition, regular exercise, which improves blood flow and
oxygenation of the eyes, and specific eye exercises also work with
your healing system to promote eye health.
medicines such

as

eyes. In

Conjunctivitis
pink eye, conjunctivitis is a common condition in children
can sweep through schools in epidemic fashion. Conjunctivitis
is often caused by viruses or bacterial agents, and it can occur when
air quality is poor or adverse environmental conditions are present.
It can also be associated with respiratory infections. Conjunctivitis
appears as a reddish or pinkish color in the whites of the eyes.
Usually only one eye is affected, but about 40 percent of the time it
Known

as

that

can occur

in both eyes.

Conjunctivitis can be itchy and sometimes even painful. In the
morning, the crusted secretions that have hardened during the night
may cause the eyes to be glued shut. Warm compresses can be help
ful to free the glued eyelids.
If you can avoid itching and scratching, your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing
system can often eradicate this condition on its
days. Salt-water eye drops and natural sunlight

own

in three

to

five

be very helpful.
chamomile may also be
can

gentle herbal eyewash such as hyssop or
helpful. Conventional treatments with anti-itch oral medications,
including mild, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines,
analgesics, antihistamines, and antibiotic drops, can be helpful to
prevent complications and control the itch as your healing system
does its job.

A

Corneal Abrasions
Corneal abrasions

occur

scratched. This

be

wearers

can

a

when the surface of the eye has been
very painful condition, as most contact-lens

know. However, because your eyes

are

so

important, your
injuries and

these

rapid. response
healing system
usually repair them within 24 to 48 hours. If you have a cornea1
abrasion, an eye patch and antibiotic drops are customarily admin
istered to rest and protect your eye, and to prevent it from becoming
infected while your healing system does its important repair work.
can

initiate

a

to

294

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Styes
Styes

small, inflamed swellings that

are

the follicles of the hairs that line the

occur as

minute infections in

of your eyelids, com
common when dust, oil,

edges

known

as your eyelashes. Styes are
monly
or foreign particles clog the pores of the skin

the eye. They are
common with carpenters and construction laborers who are inclined
to work around dusty construction sites. They may also occur when
you

and

inadvertently

repeatedly wipe

near

your

oily, dusty,

dirty

or

hands in your eyes.
Warm salt-water compresses and natural sunlight usually cure
styes in one to three days. Occasionally, in more difficult cases, top
ical antibiotic drops or ointments may be required. Natural
may also be

eyewashes

helpful. Even though they are close to the
eyes and can be unsettling, styes are more inconvenient than danger
ous, and, thanks to your healing system, they usually heal on their
own without any further complications.

Ear Problems
Your

cial

consists of three distinct parts: your external
ear, and your inner ear. Each part carries with it its

ear

middle

of

set

problems and,

will consider each

differently,

we

Impacted

Ear Wax

Impacted
fort, and

ear wax

trap
drum. Ear
ear

is

buildup,

a

part

a common cause

and

can

wax serves a

canal and

ear

problems
separately.

of hearing

infections because the

outer-ear

water,

can

because those

wax

help

to

your

own

are

problems,

blocks the

prevent sound waves from
beneficial function as both

natural antibiotic. However,

ear,

spe

treated

discom

ear

canal,

reaching your ear
a

lubricant

to

prevent excessive

the
ear-

healing system by gently flushing
and hydrogen peroxide in a 6:1
your
bulb
ratio, using a
syringe readily available from your nearest phar
This
flushing should take a maximum of 30 minutes. Ear
macy.
also
is
candling
becoming popular for this purpose. Most of us have
been told never to stick anything in our ears smaller than our
wax

ear

you

can

canal with

elbows, but I

must

warm

your

water

confess that, after

a

hot shower, if the need pres

Conquering

ents

itself,

carefully

295

Common Health Conditions

I will

occasionally

remove

any

use a

excess wax

cotton-tipped swab

to

gently and

that may have formed in my

ear

canal.

Meniere’s Disease
Also known

as

labyrinthitis,

this condition is marked

tion of the delicate inner-ear

affects balance and

hearing,

structures.

is

thought

by

inflamma

Meniere’s disease, which
be caused

to

by

a

virus,

which may follow on the heels of a respiratory infection. Meniere’s
disease often occurs only once, but it may recur from time to time.

approaches to inner-ear problems that support the work of
your healing system include acupuncture, nutritional support, the
use of specific herbs such as gingko biloba, cranial-sacral therapy,
yoga, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and physical therapy.
Natural

Middle-Ear Infections
Middle-ear infections

early child
hood, and they can be serious. They often cause fever and pain, and
they can be accompanied by loss of hearing, loss of balance, vertigo,
nausea, and vomiting. In children, under extreme conditions, a
middle-ear infection runs the risk of spreading to the brain and
causing meningitis. Because the passage that leads to the middle ear,
the eustachian tube, is directly connected to the back of the nose,
middle-ear infections occur as extensions of respiratory infections
quite

are

that may start as a cold, runny
chest congestion.
The

key

standing

the

to

treatment

relationship

common

nose, sore

in

infancy

and

throat, sinus infection,

or

of middle-ear infections involves under

between the middle

ear

and the

respiratory

must cooperate with your healing system by focusing
prevention, and by treating respiratory infections in their early

system. You
on

stages to preclude the possibility that they may spread to the middle
ear. Diet also can play a role in preventing middle-ear infections. For

example, by reducing intake of fats and oils and drinking plenty of
fluids, you can help thin out the mucous, phlegm, and congestion
in the respiratory system, which helps the body to eliminate toxins
more readily. Good posture, gentle chiropractic adjustments, and
deep breathing also appear to improve lymphatic drainage of the
middle ear and can help prevent ear infections. Herbal remedies,

stages, antibiotics are usually required, especially to prevent the pos
sibility of meningitis. But avoid the continuous use of antibiotics to
treat

this

common

Noise-Induced

Hearing
inner

problem.

Hearing

loss caused

ear

by

Loss

noise

that conduct sound

people who have
machinery, and it

is

have blasted their

ears

damages
to

worked around
now

the sensitive hair cells in the

the brain. Such loss is

showing

common

in

and loud

heavy equipment

up in ex-rock musicians, who

for years with screeching guitars and loud
music. Noise-induced hearing loss is particularly common

amplified
in people who work around airplanes and man the flight lines at air
required by law to wear
protection
ports. These people
are now

to

ear

prevent this unnecessary condition.
Hearing aids are common in the elderly and

can

be effective

to

help people compensate for inner-ear hearing loss. Delicate surgical
techniques involving the implantation of electronic sound-amplifi
cation devices are usually reserved for severe cases. Natural
approaches to inner-ear problems that support the work of your
healing system include acupuncture, nutritional support, the use of
specific herbs such as gingko biloba, cranial-sacral therapy, yoga,
acupuncture, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. Other meth
ods may also prove helpful in certain cases of inner-ear problems,
particularly if they are initiated in the early stages of these disorders.
Because your ability to hear is a precious gift, and these conditions
are often difficult to treat, prevention of noise-induced hearing loss
is critical.

Outer-Ear Infections
Often known

as

swimmer’s

extremely painful

ear

infections,

and

outer-ear

infections

where

can

be

lot of time

are common
people spend a
humidity is high. If you develop an outer-ear
infection, antibiotic drops and keeping your ear dry to discourage
bacterial growth allow your healing system to restore health to your
ear, usually in less than seven days. Several natural eardrops, such as

in the

water or

gentian

where

violet and mullein au,

are

also available and

can

be effective

prevent or heal outer-ear infections by keeping
clean and dry. If you spend a lot of time in the water, you

treatments.

your
can

ears

help

You

your

can

healing

system prevent

ing alcohol and vinegar ear drops,
swimming. These can help keep your
rial

297

Common Health Conditions

Conquering

growth

and minimizes the

outer-ear
or

ears

using

dry,

infections
a

blow

by apply
dryer after

which inhibits bacte

possibility of an

outer-ear

infection.

Perforated Ear Drum
This condition
ear,

which

common

result of increased pressure in the middle
the eardrum to rupture. Perforated ear drum is

occurs as a

causes

in divers,

tions, and

people

people who fly when they have respiratory infec

who

are

hit

on

the side of the head and the

ear

is

traumatized.

Symptoms may include pain, hearing loss, a bloody ear
canal, and vertigo. Thanks to your body’s healing system, if the tear

ruptured eardrum will usually heal on its own in
one month’s time. During this healing period, it is important to sup
port the work of your healing system by not getting water into your
ears, which might cause a serious infection. If the rupture is very
large, surgical grafting of a new eardrum may be required; but,
thanks to your healing system, doing this is not common because
your ear usually can heal on its own.
is

not too

large,

a

Surfer’s Ear
Known

as

exostosis, surfer’s

ear

occurs

when the bones in the

ear

canal grow together, obstructing the ear canal and causing water to
be trapped. This condition can lead to chronic outer-ear infections.

Surfer’s

ear

is

common not

only in

surfers who

frequent cold waters,

but also in skiers, hunters, farmers, and other outdoor-oriented

people
An

who live in cold climates.
scrape away the extra bone growth is conven
however, if you return to the cold environment after

operation

tionally offered;

to

surgery without sufficient ear protection, the bone growth will also
return. The recurring bone growth is actually a compensatory pro

healing system in its attempt to keep the
warm enough to efficiently conduct
ear
sound waves so that hearing is not impaired. Ear plugs or other ear
protection keeps the ears warm and helps your healing system to
prevent this condition from developing.
tective mechanism of your

sensitive and delicate

drum

298

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Tin nitus
Also known

as

ringing in the ears,

problem of the inner ear,
hearing loss. Tinnitus is a troubling
tinnitus is

a

and may or may not accompany
condition not often responsive to conventional medical
Natural

approaches

to

inner-ear

problems

such

as

treatment.

tinnitus that

support the work of your healing system include acupuncture,
nutritional support, the use of specific herbs such as gingko biloba,

therapy, yoga, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and
physical therapy. Other methods may also prove helpful in certain
cases of inner-ear problems, particularly if they are initiated in the
early stages of these disorders. Because your ability to hear is a
precious gift, and these conditions are often difficult to treat, pre
vention is very important.
cranial-sacral

Respiratory System

Disorders

Asthma

respiratory condition

is characterized

by congestion,
coughing, wheezing, and constricted airways. During flare-ups,
these symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening. Through

This chronic

the world, asthma appears to be on the rise, a fact that many
experts attribute to increasing urbanization and air pollution. Other

out

possible causes and triggers for asthma include respiratory infec
tions, respiratory allergens, aerosol pollutants (including the inhala
tion of toxic fumes or vapors), climatic changes, dehydration, poor
diets, and stress and emotional upheaval, among others. Conven
tional Western medicine has developed many effective medications
for airway management to lessen the strain of breathing for persons
who have asthma. Although many of these medications are invalu
able, even life-saving, particularly in urgent and emergency situa
tions, most do not address the underlying causes of asthma.
Treatment of asthma includes drinking plenty of fluids to help
lubricate the lungs and decrease mucous and phlegm. You can also
aid your healing system by breathing good, clean, wholesome air;
avoiding dust, irritating aerosol chemicals, and other triggers; and
keeping warm to avoid catching a cold. Also, stay away from fats

Conquering

299

Common Health Conditions

and oils

during flare-ups, practice stress-management and relaxation
methods, release unhealthy emotions, and practice breathing exer
cises. All of these steps can be extremely effective in treating asthma.
In addition to the medications your doctor may prescribe, natural,
alternative medicines and treatments that work with your healing
system also can successfully treat asthma.
Bronchitis

Bronchitis,

lungs,

is

one

most

of the

most common

often caused

by

viruses

respiratory
or

infections of the

bacteria that have

slipped

past the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s primary defenses and entered into the airways.
Bronchitis is characterized by inflammation and infection in the
bronchi and bronchial tubes, which

the

breathing passages in the
lungs. Coughing and congestion are persistent, and fever may also
be present. Conventional doctors usually prescribe antibiotics and
cough medicines for this condition. (See the section on pneumonia
for additional suggestions.)
are

Colds
Common colds

are

invariably

associated with runny

noses.

When

you catch a cold, usually the nose is the first organ affected because
the thousands of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in the
air first

with your body through the nose. Nasal
and inflammation can often be relieved by working with

come

congestion
your healing

in

contact

system in several ways. These include

breathing good
avoiding dust, smoke, or polluted environments; keeping warm;
eating lightly (focusing on soups and hot teas); and drinking plenty
of fluids. Steam inhalation, saline nose drops, and other natural
remedies, including horseradish, Chinese mustard, and wasabe
(Japanese horseradish), can also be effective to help keep your nose
and respiratory system healthy. Again, prevention is the key to
avoiding the common cold; if this is not possible, your goal should
air;

be

initiate

to

treatment

in the earliest stages.

Emphysema and COPD
(Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
These
term

respiratory-system disorders
cigarette smoking, but they may
two

are

usually

related

also be linked

to

long
repeated
to

300

Activating

exposure

asbestos

to

or

Your

Healing System

other chemicals that

When You’re Sick

harmful

are

to

the

lungs, especially
period. The best way to
assist your healing system in the treatment of these conditions
includes breathing good air, doing breathing exercises, and drinking
over

plenty

a

substantial time

of fluids. Certain natural remedies,

herbs that stimulate

repair

including vitamin C and
as comfrey and

of damaged tissues, such

aloe,

may also be helpful. Again, prevention is much more effective
and easier than attempting to cure either of these conditions once

the disease has established itself. Because of the

body’s healing

system, however, even people with long-term smoking habits can
improve their breathing and the health of their lungs if they quit

smoking

before

irreparable damage

has occurred.

Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis

is

inflammation of the

pharynx that frequently
results in a sore throat. Pharyngitis often begins when the body is
chilled, and bacteria have entered past your body’s primary defenses.
Often, you will need a prescription for an antibiotic. Other, more
natural methods that support your healing system to overcome
pharyngitis include eating fewer fats and oils, drinking plenty of
fluids, keeping warm, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep
and rest. Ginger-root tea can also be very effective in treating
pharyngitis. To make ginger-root tea, grate fresh ginger root, put it
in boiling water, and steep for 5 tolO minutes; then add lemon and
honey before you drink the tea.
an

Pneumonia
Pneumonia is

an

extension of bronchitis and

infection into the air

night

sweats are

is unable

all

often

to enter

weakness

is

and

recesses

the bloodstream
common.

as a

as an

unhealthy

as

Before the

the result of certain

diet and

lifestyle.

lungs.

Fever and

and because oxygen

result of the infection,

over

advent of antibiotics,

pneumonia was one of the leading causes
piratory infections, pneumonia is usually
immune function

invasion of the

an

of the

deeper
present with pneumonia,

sacs

of death. As with all
a

res

reflection of decreased

stresses on

In addition

to

the

body,

such

whatever medica

tions you might require, including antibiotics, and the use of other
natural remedies, such as plant- and mineral-based medicines, it is

Conquering

Common Health Conditions

important

to

assist your

healing

301

system

by following

these

recom

mendations:
1. Drink

plenty

Your

of fluids.
70 percent fluid, and

body is

so

the

more

fluid you

bring

into your system, the faster your body can eliminate the toxins
from the infection. Additionally, it is important to avoid fats and

oils until you are better because they tend to create more phlegm
and mucous, which increase congestion and clog your airways.
2.

Keep

warm.

body likes to stay warm, around 98.6 degrees. When
become
chilled, your immune system is impaired as a result
you
of the stress of your body attempting to restore proper temper
Your

keep warm by wearing a sweater or windbreaker,
drinking plenty of warm liquids such as soups and herbal teas,
and avoiding air conditioning, fans, or exposure to cold weather.
ature.

You

can

3. Rest.

When you are sleep deprived or chronically fatigued, your
immune system and healing system bog down and you become
more susceptible to illness. It is difficult to get better and heal if
you

does

are

not

most

getting adequate

rest

because your

of its best work when you

are

resting

healing system
or sleeping.

Respiratory Aflergies
Respiratory allergies
the

nose

come

in various forms and

and sinuses. A few of the

more common

afflict

varieties include

Many people report the
allergic
source of their allergy to be specific plant materials, such as pollens,
grasses, or fungal spores, but many others tend to have worse symp
toms while they are indoors. This suggests that chemicals, dust, dust
mites, mold, and other potentially allergic material in the ventila
tion systems at work or in the home may be responsible for most
allergies. Additionally, the way people breathe can affect their sus
ceptibility to a respiratory allergy. For example, people who breathe
exclusively through their mouths have higher rates of respiratory
allergies. This is probably because the air they are breathing does not
have the opportunity for the nose to filter and clean it.
rhinitis, hay fever,

suppressive medications, including steroids,
mines, and decongestants, for urgent situations only,
rely on them for long-term treatment.

5. Reserve

6.

Try sunbaths, exercise,

yoga, acupuncture,

antihista

and don’t

chiropractic care,

and

other natural methods that work with your healing system and
that can play a supporting role in managing and overcoming

respiratory allergies.
Sinus Infections
Sinus infections

of the

of all

respiratory
people visit the
office.
infections
doctor’s
Sinus
occur when respiratory infections,
which begin in the nose and throat area, spread to the sinuses. The
sinuses are small, cavernous air pockets that play an important role
in defense, balance, and buoyancy of the head.
Antibiotics are often prescribed and effective in acute cases of
sinus infection, but chronic conditions respond better to more nat
ural methods that support your healing system. These methods
include drinking more fluids; breathing steam; applying salt-water
cleanses, sprays, or irrigation; and breathing good air. Natural sun
baths, acupuncture, yoga, gentle massage, and cranial-sacral
bodywork may also be helpful to your healing system. In addition,
infections and

reducing
such

are

one

some

of the

most

most

common

common

fats and oils in your diet

can

help.

reasons

Natural

plant

remedies

wasabe, horseradish, Chinese mustard, echinacea, and astra
galus may also be helpful. (An excellent book about sinus infections
is Sinus Survival, by Dr. Rob Ivker, past president of the American
as

Holistic Medical Association and former chronic sinusitis

sufferer.)

Conquering

303

Common Health Conditions

Strep Throat
Strep

by various types of streptococcal bacteria and is
when the weather turns colder, often coinciding with

throat is caused

more common

beginning of flu season. We used to consider strep throat highly
contagious, but recent evidence points more toward changes in
weather, stress, and compromised host-resistance factors, which
the

lowers immune function.

Under most conditions, strep throat does not affect other organs
and systems of the body; however, because of the rare complicating
factors that can affect the kidneys and heart, doctors routinely treat

therapy. The key to treating this condition, again,
lies in prevention. You can also assist your healing system by keep
ing your body warm, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding stress, and
getting sufficient rest, sleep, and adequate exercise. Ginger, in addi
tion to other herbs, and salt-water gargles, can also be helpful.
it with antibiotic

Tonsillitis

recently, the tonsils were routinely removed if they were con
tinually swollen. We now know, however, that the tonsils perform
an important immune function and, if possible, are better left in.
Although antibiotics may be required to effectively treat tonsil
litis, dietary management involving decreased dairy, fats, and oils,
and drinking plenty of fluids, helps thin the mucous and aids your
healing system in eliminating toxins. Keeping warm, getting plenty
of sleep and rest, and managing stress all appear to be helpful in
aiding your healing system in the treatment and prevention of ton
sillitis. Ginger-root tea can also be very effective in treating tonsillitis.
To make ginger-root tea, grate fresh ginger root, place it in boiling
water, and steep for 5 to 10 minutes; then add lemon and honey before
Until

you drink the

tea.

Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is
such

as

exist in

lowered

common

where adverse environmental conditions

lack of sunlight, and

quality,
conjunction with inadequate

poor air

This illness

inadequate

ventilation

nutrition, poor sanitation, and

commonly occurs in developing
countries or in populations that are destitute and despairing, such as
alcoholics and people who are chronically malnourished.
immunity.

more

304

Activating

Treatments exist
are

not

addressed,

to cure

Your

Healing System

this illness, but if the

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

underlying causes
only temporarily.

curative medications may last

The

problem may come right back after treatment has been com
pleted because re-infection is likely. Conversely, once you cooperate
with your healing system by addressing the underlying causes,
symptoms of TB will often improve on their own. TB sanitariums,
which still exist in many parts of the world, emphasize the impor
tance of daily sunbathing and proper diets, factors that support the
bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system.

Digestive System
Problems in the
result of
can

a

digestive

faulty diet,

range from such

tion,

system

common

in combination with

common

esophageal reflux,

are

Disorders

conditions

as

and

stress.

are

These

often the

problems
indigesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;

heartburn, acid

minor upset stomach, and

gastritis,

to more

serious conditions.

You can often prevent and treat these conditions by working
with your healing system. This means paying closer attention to the
foods you eat, drinking more water, practicing stress-management

and

avoiding irritating or harmful substances such as
coffee and alcohol. The digestive system is very susceptible to stress
because of the sensitive lining of the intestines, and the rich nerve
supply that connects these structures to the brain and nervous
system. Increasing water intake; decreasing irritating and toxic sub
stances such as coffee and alcohol; avoiding or minimizing acidic
foods, such as vinegar, orange juice, and citrus juices; avoiding too
many fried foods, fats, and oils; and going long periods without any
food or liquid intake whatsoever are a few of the specific ways that
you can work with your healing system to overcome most digestive
system problems. Natural remedies such as peppermint and
chamomile tea, slippery elm, deglycyrrhizinated licorice, and aloe vera,
can also be helpful. Maintaining adequate fluid and fiber intake is
important to ensure timely elimination of toxins and waste products
while preserving the health of your intestinal tract.
techniques,

Conquering

305

Common Health Conditions

Appendicitis
In this country,

appendicitis has traditionally been regarded as a sur
gical emergency because people who fail to receive timely treatment
can rupture their appendix and suffer serious and sometimes fatal
consequences. In fact, during abdominal surgery for other reasons,
a
surgeon will often remove the appendix as a preventative measure
at no extra charge. Low-residue foods and foods that are highly
processed, along with excess fat in the diet, can be contributing fac
tors to appendicitis.
Appendicitis, strangely enough, is not routinely operated on in
China, as it is here; rather, if the inflammation is caught in its earlier
stages, it is often successfully treated with fluids and certain herbs. Even
in this country, if caught early, many cases of appendicitis will respond
well to clear-liquid diets. Diets high in fiber and low in fat can often
help prevent this problem. Because little research has been done on the
dietary influences on appendicitis, however, there is still a tendency to
regard surgery as the only solution to the condition. Prevention,
including the regular ingestion of adequate fiber and fluids, will help
your healing system maintain the health of your appendix.
Coâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;on Cancer
A

leading

absent in

food

cause

most

products

of death in the U.S., colon

developing
are

consumed. The now-famous

Burkitt, M.D., reported that there

is

remarkably

meat

and refined

cancer

countries where little

were no cases

study by
of colon

Dennis

cancer

in

African

villages where people subsisted largely on vegetarian diets.
Similarly, in Seventh Day Adventists, who are known vegetarians,
colon-cancer rates are very low compared to the mainstream U.S.
population.
In addition

to

diet, apparent contributors

chronic

to

colon

cancer are

and emotional factors.

dehydration,
constipation, stress,
Learning how to relax, practicing stress management, following the
dietary suggestions given earlier, and instituting measures aimed at
good bowel hygiene will aid your healing system and prevent colon
cancer from occurring, even if it has a high rate of occurrence in
your family.

306

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Constipation
Constipation

is the

condition of the colon,

large
by poor diet, lack of fiber, not
enough fluids, stress and anxiety, and a sedentary lifestyle. The prob
lem with constipation is that it causes toxins to back up in your
intestines, and is

most common

most

or

often caused

system, which can contribute to other disease processes. If it is
allowed to progress, constipation can result in bowel obstruction,
which is a surgical emergency.

Increased fluid and fiber, relaxation and

stress

increased exercise, which increases blood flow

to

management, and
the colon, are usu

ally quite helpful to your healing system in preventing constipation.
You can also occasionally use gentle conventional and natural laxa
tives for acute episodes of constipation.
Gastritis
Gastritis results

and

stress.

commonly from a combination of faulty
include improper food combinations, eating

lining.
drinking plenty of water and nonacidic, soothing liquids will aid your healing system in eliminating
this condition. Eating more bland and soothing foods, especially
during flare-ups; managing stress; and using natural soothing com
pounds such as aloe vera juice, deglycyrrhizinated licorice,
peppermint, chamomile, and slippery-elm teas can also be quite
helpful.
Removing

these factors while

Gastroenteritis
Gastroenteritis is

general term that refers to irritation and inflam
gastrointestinal tract, which includes the
small and large intestines. Mild cases of food poi

a

mation of the entire

stomach and the

represent the ingestion of contaminated foods and are
the
more common causes of gastroenteritis. Some of these
among
be severe, but most last no more than a few days.
cases
can

soning

Symptoms often include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain
cramping, and diarrhea. Fever may or may not be present.

with

Conquering

307

Common Health Conditions

Treatment is directed toward
system, which

can

flush

out

supporting

the

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing

the intestinal contaminants with the

vomiting and diarrhea, especially if no solid foods are eaten. Take
clear liquids in abundance for the first 48 hours, without any solid
foods. It is important not to introduce solid food that can feed the
offending organisms and slow down your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing processes.
If fever is present, antibiotics may be necessary for a few days, par
ticularly if you are traveling overseas or are in an exotic tropical
locale where your body may not be used to the local flora and con
taminants in that part of the world.

Hepatitis
Inflammation of the liver is called

hepatitis, and there are many
causes for the different types of hepatitis. Cases of hepatitis can be
acute and isolated, or chronic and debilitating. Viral hepatitis is con
tracted through various infectious sources. Viral hepatitis now
appears in multiple forms, including hepatitis A, B, C, non-A, nonB, and many more. Hepatitis A is usually contracted by eating or
drinking contaminated food or water, or through sharing contami
nated eating utensils. Most other forms of hepatitis, such as B, C,
and others, are most commonly contracted through unsafe sexual
practices, contaminated needles, or blood transfusions. Alcoholic
hepatitis is due to the chronic irritation and consumption of alcohol
and can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, which causes scarring, abnormal
growth, and other complications, including liver cancer.
Conventional Western medicine has little
medications

to

improve

to

offer in the way of
treatments for

the health of the liver. Most

hepatitis, as in chemotherapy for cancer, are aimed at attacking the
supposed agents of disease, and they may be even more damaging to
the liver than the agents themselves.

extremely important in supporting your healing system
when you have hepatitis. Nutritional elements that help support the
health of your liver include foods high in beta carotene, including
turmeric and all yellow and orange vegetables and fruit. Consuming
plenty of fiber and fluids is also important. High-fat diets and low
Diet is

residue foods seem to aggravate liver conditions. The herb milk
thistle and its extracted alkaloid, silymarin, can be helpful for certain
liver conditions. Traditional medicines from India and China also

308

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

be

promising. Stress management, visualization and
guided imagery, and emotional release of anger can also be very
helpful for liver conditions. Because the liver is so important and so
difficult to treat, practicing preventive medicine is essential to avoid
to

appear

these liver conditions.

Inflammatory
Inflammatory

Bowel Disease

bowel disease includes

conditions such
Crohn

c

as

a

large category of intestinal
syndrome, spastic colon,

colitis, irritable bowel

disease, and ulcerative colitis. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and

cramping

are common

during flare-ups

patients with inflamma
similarly to autoimmune

in

tory bowel disorders, which behave
diseases. Like other chronic intestinal diseases, these conditions

are

influenced

the

by dietary

factors and

in the intestines

nerves

can

During times of stress,
hyperstimulated and irritate

stress.

become

delicate intestinal

the

lining. For these reasons, these conditions have
in people who are under long-term stress, those
higher
who are high achievers, and those with perfectionist tendencies.
Conventional treatments, including drugs and surgery; a com
bination of stress-management techniques, including guided
imagery and visualization; and special dietary practices are most
helpful to the healing system in managing these conditions. An
effective diet for these disorders is one that is bland, gentle, and
soothing, and that consists of adequate fiber. Okra is ideal for people
with inflammatory bowel problems because it contains adequate
fiber and is also gentle and soothing, a rare dietary combination.
Other natural substances that can assist your healing system in help
ing to soothe and heal inflamed intestinal surfaces are water, slippery
elm and chamomile teas, aloe vera, and deglycyrrhizinated licorice.
Alternative approaches, including Ayurvedic medicine, Chinese

a

occurrence

herbal medicines, acupuncture, and yoga, can also assist your heal
ing system to help reverse these conditions. Addressing problems
related
tions

to

can

these disorders
contribute

to

early on is important
problems elsewhere

because these condi
in the

body. Those
syndromes
not brought

problems

include anemia, vitamin deficiencies, and

related

poor

to

absorption

of essential nutrients; if

under control, those conditions

can worsen.

Conquering

309

Common Health Conditions

Stomach Ulcers and Duodenal Ulcers

Commonly
ulcers

referred

are areas

to as

peptic ulcers,

stomach ulcers and duodenal

of the stomach that become deteriorated

by stomach

acid. Indigestion and abdominal pain in the upper abdomen and
lower chest often accompany stomach ulcers, and, sometimes,
the ulcers can bleed. Stomach ulcers often have similar causes to

inflammatory

bowel disease, but

they represent a more persistent
digestive system. In recent years, a
bacterium known as H. pylon has been implicated in the cause
of certain ulcers, but stress also is known to be a big factor in these
and chronic imbalance in the

conditions.
In the

the

stages of an ulcer, treatment depends on stopping
if it has already begun. A more long-term approach

acute

bleeding
learning

includes
habits

to

eating

a

how

support your

blander,

more

and

changing your eating
Drinking more water and
neutral, gentle, soothing, less acidic, less

to

manage

healing

stress

system.

flesh-oriented diet that consists of

non-irritating

foods

are

most

helpful. Eliminate caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol from your diet if
you have ulcers. Acting early to institute these measures will help
prevent ulcers from developing in the first
techniques and learning how to relax are

place. Stress-management
extremely helpful for the
treatment and prevention of ulcers. Many gentle, soothing natural
supplements, such as peppermint and chamomile tea, deglycyrrhiz
mated licorice, slippery elm, in addition to the more traditional
antacids and acid-blocking drugs, are often effective to help your
healing system in the short- and long-term management of ulcers.

Urinary System

Disorders

kidneys are the main filters and organs of your body that elim
inate liquid waste products. Your kidneys require adequate fluid
intake and regular flushing, and they can become unhealthy if you
donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t drink enough fluids. Other factors that can be harmful to your
kidneys include the regular ingestion of certain toxic substances, and
long-standing high blood pressure and diabetes, conditions that, if
treated early or prevented, will most often not harm your kidneys.

The

310

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Stones

Kidney

Kidney stones are another fairly common and very painful problem.
Kidney stones are made of stone-like material that forms in the kid
neys and then attempts

to

pass down from the ureters into the
through the urethra. Kidney stones

bladder, and from the bladder
be

and

they almost always cause a small
amount
kidney stones are large, they can
block the ureters and may require surgical removal.
Some stones can be blasted out by sound waves, a technique
known as lithotri~sy. Stress, dehydration, hormonal imbalance,
faulty diet, and excess caffeine and nicotine can all contribute to the
formation of kidney stones. Stress management, drinking plenty of
fluids, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine all help to support your
healing system to prevent and eliminate kidney stones.
can

extremely painful,

of blood in the urine. If

Urinary-Tract
Urinary-tract

Infections

infections include bladder
than in

and

infections,
lead

which

are

more

infec

to
women
men
can
kidney
Urinary-tract infections can easily be prevented if good bladder
and bowel hygiene are maintained. Once you have contracted a uri
nary-tract infection, however, antibiotic therapy is mandatory to
prevent further spread and damage to the kidneys. In adult women,
the most common activity associated with urinary-tract infections is
sexual intercourse, and most women instinctively know to urinate
after sex to prevent this from happening. Another more prudent pre
ventive measure is to take a bath or shower in the morning after you
have moved your bowels. Doing this will eliminate the bacteria that
are associated with these infections. Along with lots of fluids, certain
herbs, such as uva ursi, juniper berries, and other natural substances
such as cranberry, can help your healing system maintain the health of
your kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract.
common

in

serious

tions.

Female
The female

Reproductive System

Disorders

reproductive system is extremely sensitive and complex.
It operates on a cycle, responding to nerve transmissions from the
brain and hormonal messages from the pituitary gland. At the same

Conquering

311

Common Health Conditions

its own hormones in the form of estrogen and
feed
that
back to these other organs.
progesterone
Problems in the reproductive system may reflect hormonal

time, it is

producing

imbalances that

in other parts of the

body,

and such

prob
during times of mental and emotional stress. An
unhealthy diet, including excess caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, and
other harmful lifestyle factors may also contribute to problems of
the female reproductive system. Sexually transmitted diseases can
also damage the reproductive system. To help your healing system
maintain the health of your reproductive system, follow the recom
mendations for overall health given in previous chapters, try
appropriate natural herbs, and eat a wholesome, healthy diet. An
originate

lems often flare up

excellent

resource on

how you

can

improve

ductive system is Dr. Christiane
Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom.

Cancer of the Female
The female
cancer to

Northrup’s best-selling book,

Reproductive System

reproductive system

appear. There

the health of your repro

are

is

two

one

of the

reasons

most common

sites for

for this. First, the female

reproductive system is extremely sensitive and vulnerable, and it
intimately interacts with other systems in your body. Second, the
cells of this system are some of the most rapidly dividing, active, and
volatile cell populations of any tissue in the body. Cervical cancer,
ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and breast cancer are the predominant
types of

cancer,

subject of cancer
chapter.

male

or

female,

and how

to

on

this entire earth. I address the

deal with it in

more

detail later in this

Menopause
It is

during this time in a woman’s life that ovulation and menstru
gradually end, resulting in diminishing levels of estrogen in
blood. The question of estrogen (hormonal) replacement ther

ation

the

osteoporosis and heart disease that can occur
following menopause is an ongoing area of debate among experts.
Although estrogen replacement may be appropriate in certain cases,
it also has an associated risk of increased reproductive-system cancer.
apy

to

prevent

Because of this risk, the

use

of natural,

substances that work with the

plant-derived estrogens and
healing system are becoming more

312

Activating

popular.

These

effective

as more

options

Your

Healing System

generally safer, gentler,

are

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

and often

just

as

conventional forms of estrogen. Also, new evidence
with NASA astronauts who experienced osteoporosis while they
in

prolonged zero-gravity conditions showed that their osteo
porosis could be reversed by their resuming normal weight-bearing
activities once they were back on earth. The late actor, Christopher
Reeve, a quadriplegic, who also developed osteoporosis due to inac
tivity, was able to reverse this condition as well by resuming
weight-bearing exercises. Clearly, there is more to osteoporosis than
merely menopause and estrogen.
In generations past, menopause was accepted as a natural con
were

dition of life, with little evidence that it caused increased risk of
heart disease
role in these

osteoporosis. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;While the lack of estrogen
conditions, certainly, other more important

also need

be considered.

to

or

Premenstrual
Premenstrual
that

occurs

may

play

a

risk factors

Syndrome (PMS)

syndrome,

or

PMS, is

a

common,

painful

around the time of menstruation and involves

disorder

cramping

of the uterine muscles. It may also include headaches and other asso
ciated symptoms, sometimes so severe that they can be disabling.

Stress, tension, emotional

dehydration,
symptoms
tant

to

For

worse.

ease

upheaval,

lack of exercise, poor diet,
can make PMS

and excessive caffeine and alcohol
back

a

women

little

on

who

are

always

on

the go, it is

normal activities and listen

impor
to

their

bodies
of

during menstruation, a time of blood loss and sloughing
reproductive tissues. Drink plenty of fluids, decrease caffeine

and alcohol intake,

techniques,

and

rest to

Natural herbs, such

stress-management and visualization
support your healing system at these times.

practice

cramp bark,

raspberry tea, and dong quai, can
help alleviate PMS symptoms. Acupuncture, gentle yoga stretching,
breathing, and massage may also be helpful. Other disorders of the
female reproductive system, such as endometriosis, uterine Jibroids,
ovarian cysts, and fibrocystic breast disease often reflect hormonal
imbalances, which, if caught early, can successfully respond to meth
ods that work with your healing system. Some of these methods are
proper diet,

stress

medications and

as

management, increased fluid intake, and natural

treatments.

Conquerrng

Male

Male

313

Common Heafth Conditions

Reproductive System

Disorders

Menopause

Recent research shows that

through a male equivalent
to female menopause, when, around the ages of approximately 45 to
65, their testosterone levels become diminished, and they can suffer
from mood swings and depression. Standardized doses of testos
terone are currently available to supplement low testosterone levels,
and natural sources of testosterone that work more harmoniously
with your healing system are also currently being researched.
men

by
University of California, San Francisco, and at Sloan
Kettering Cancer Institute in New York, is showing that diet and
emotional factors, including stress, play a significant role in prostate

being
at

the

and other disorders of the prostate. In addition to these stud
ies, many case reports and books are beginning to demonstrate
cancer

for

successful

treatments

overcoming prostate cancer using methods
that naturally work with your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system. Prostate Health
in 90 Days is an excellent book by Larry Clapp, a lawyer who had
prostate cancer and successfully overcame it with methods that work
with the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system.
Prostate

Enlargement

Also known

as

benign prostatic hypertrophy,

or

BPH, this condition

compresses and encroaches upon the urethra, which is the tube lead
ing from the bladder through the penis. Prostate enlargement makes

passing

urine difficult. In advanced

up 6 tolO times or more a night
bladder never fully empties.

In addition

to

a man may have to wake
urinate because with BPH, the

cases,

palmetto, a natural
herb that works with your healing system by shrinking and reduc
ing swelling in the prostate, can often be very helpful for BPH. A
low-fat diet, increased fluids and fiber, and reducing overall body
to

conventional medicines,

saw

314

Activating

Your

Healing System

When You’re Sick

by learning how to relax can also support your healing
preventing and minimizing symptoms of BPH. BPH is

tension

system in

related

not

to

prostate

cancer.

Testicular Cancer
This form of

frequently afflicts younger males. If testicular
caught
early stages and given appropriate medical
treatment, accompanied by lifestyle changes that help support the
body’s healing system, it is often curable. The subject of cancer is
discussed more thoroughly later in this chapter.
cancer

cancer

in its

is

Disorders

Lymphatic System

lymphatic vessels, channels, and lymph nodes make up your
lymph system, which shares an important relationship with your body’s
immune and healing systems. The white blood cells of your immune
system, which help fight infection and keep your blood clean, circu
late in the lymph fluid. Lymph-node enlargement, which represents
white-blood-cell proliferation and activation, occurs in response to
Your

infections.
Serious disorders of the

lymphatic

system include

Hodgkin’s

disease, lymphoma, and other lymphatic cancers, which represent gen
eralized, weakened conditions of the body. Conventional treatments
such

also

as

radiation

important

system, such

can

to use

as

often be

helpful

for these conditions, but it is

natural methods that work with your healing
management, eating a healthy, wholesome

stress

diet, increasing fluid intake, and using other natural medicines and
herbs. If

caught early,

easier

eradicate. A famous

to

lymphatic
champion

cancer

these conditions of the

is Lance

lymphatic

system

are

story of a person who overcame
Armstrong, legendary Tour de France
success

system disorders often involve the brain and
They include such conditions as the following:

nervous

serious.

Alzheimer’s disease, characterized

are

loss of short-term memory.

by a

Cerebral palsy, which appears early in life and is a debilitating
to birth trauma or other congenital problems;

condition related

~

cerebral

palsy

results in

Epilepsy,

which includes

speech
a

and

movement

disturbances.

wide range of conditions that

cause

seizures.

Multiple sclerosis, thought to be an autoimmune disease, with
symptoms including progressive weakness, loss of balance, lack
of coordination, and speech and visual disturbances.
~

Parkinson’s disease, characterized
and

by

tremors,

a

shuffling walk,

rigidity.

Spinal-cord disorders, which are usually trauma related and result
in life-altering paralysis of one degree or another.
Because of the seriousness of central

treating them once they
working with your healing

and the difficulties in
focus should be

system disorders
are established, the

nervous

to

prevent
them. Conventional medicines may be necessary to help manage
these problems once they are established, supported by good nutri
on

system

Gingko biloba, which has been shown to
increase blood flow to the brain, may be helpful in selected cases of
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Stress management, including
relaxation training and breathing techniques, have a natural calming
effect on the mind and brain, and they help manage these conditions
by stabilizing the electrical activity of the nervous system. Stress-man
agement techniques are also effective in relieving pain and tension
resulting from these conditions. Gentle yoga techniques can also sup
port the healing system by improving balance and coordination.
Acupuncture, music therapy, and massage can also be helpful.
tion and natural medicines.

316

Activating

The

most

important thing

underlying causes

Your

you

Healing System

can

When You’re Sick

do is pay attention to the
start treatment in the ear

of these conditions and

liest stages when symptoms are less severe. Exciting new research in
the field of nerve regeneration is investigating procedures that sup
port the

healing system’s ability to mend damaged nerves and create
new pathways for victims of spinal cord injury and other diseases of
the central

nervous

system.

Peripheral Neuropathies
Peripheral neuropathies

disorders that

usually involve the
neuropathy, sciatica and
“pinched nerves,” and nutritional neuropathies, such as those caused
by vitamin B12 deficiency, (pernicious anemia), or thiamin defi
ciency, (beriberi). Because these conditions are often associated with
other health problems that are both correctable and preventable,
addressing those underlying factors is the key to working with your
healing system to improve and reverse the nerve disorders. Paying
attention to good nutrition and incorporating stress management
and other natural methods that work with your healing system can
go a long way toward improving these conditions.
are nerve

extremities. These disorders include diabetic

Musculoskeletal Disorders
Problems in the muscles and bones
bruises and contusions

healing system’s amazing ability to mend and remodel bone,
fractures heal uneventfully once the bones are held in place by
either a cast or splint. The largest bone in the body, the femur, takes
just six weeks to heal from a simple fracture.
Some complex fractures might require assistance with methods
such as bone setting and open surgical reduction using plates, rods,
your

most

screws,

and

pins,

as

well

as

electrical bone stimulation, but

most

Conquering

fractures may not
well-known study
to

317

Common Health Conditions

require casting. This was demonstrated in a
involving Nigerian bone doctors, who never went
school, yet they showed that the fractures they treated

medical

using only sticks

even

healed in the

with modern methods in

Muscular

a

same amount

large hospital

of time

as

those treated

in America.

Injuries

Injuries of the muscles are common. If muscles are strong and
overdeveloped, but not flexible or relaxed, the likelihood of injuries
increases because of their stiffness and rigidity. Additionally, because
your muscles
can

also

tribute

are

cause

to

connected

to

your nerves, mental tension and

muscular tension and stiffness. These conditions

muscle

pain,

and

they

are

often

contributing

stress
con

factors

to

many muscular and neuromuscular disorders, including back pain
and fibromyalgia. Dietary factors and other lifestyle and personal

health habits also

play a major

role in these conditions.

healthy muscle is one that is strong, flexible, and relaxed; so
regularly stretching and relaxing all the muscles in your body, in
addition to exercising, are important. Yoga is a gentle, systematic
approach to ensuring proper health of your muscles through exer
cises that lengthen, stretch, and relax the muscles while building
tone and strength. Anyone with a muscular condition would do well
to investigate the possibility of adding yoga to his or her overall heal
ing program.
A

Osteoporosis
Common in

post-menopausal women, osteoporosis represents a loss
density and strength. Many experts believe this condition is
caused by a lack of estrogen; however, newer research on astronauts
shows that a lack of weight-bearing exercise may play a larger role.
of bone

There is evidence that

stress,

which affects the endocrine system and
high-protein diets, which can

influences calcium metabolism, and

leech calcium from bone, may also contribute to the condition.
Osteoporosis can be prevented and often reversed by regular

weight-bearing
cium,
your

stress

stretching, adequate vitamin D and cal
and a healthy, wholesome diet that supports

exercise and

management,

healing system.

318

Activating

Joint

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

Disorders

constantly moving, your joints are subject to wear
tear,
they are a common site for painful problems and dis
turbances. Joint diseases are particularly common in the Western
developed world. Ironically, these conditions are relatively rare in
most developing countries where activities and lifestyles are less
sedentary.
Because you

are

and

and

Gout
the “rich man’s disease,” gout is caused
production, often the result of rich foods such
Known

as

by

excess

as

meat

uric acid

and flesh

products. Gout is virtually absent among poor populations, which
subsist predominantly on vegetables and grains. Gout is entirely cur
able and preventable, and it responds well to reducing or abstaining
from all

meats,

intake and

fowl, and seafood. In addition, increasing fluid

avoiding

coffee and alcohol

can

prevent

flare-ups

of this

condition.
Osteoarthritis
Most doctors believe that osteoarthritis is caused

by the steady wear
and tear of joints. This condition can be prevented and reversed
by following methods that work with your healing system. These
include gentle stretching of the muscles that surround the affected
joints, and increased consumption of fluids, including fruit and
vegetable juices. Movement therapies such as yoga, tai chi, and
swimming; acupuncture; and visualization and guided imagery can
also be very helpful for this condition. Certain foods and natural
supplements such as glucosamine may also be helpful.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Now considered

an

autoimmune

problem,

rheumatoid arthritis is

caused by dysfunction in the lines of communication among the
immune system, the endocrine system, and your brain. Emotional

upheaval often precedes painful flare-ups of rheumatoid arthritis.
Dr. George Freeman Solomon, at UCLA, who is one of the world’s
foremost authorities

on

psychological factors,

rheumatoid arthritis, has identified several

such

as

repressed

anger, that

can

alter the

Conquering

319

Common Health Conditions

of your internal environment and trigger destructive
autoimmune responses that affect joint surfaces. Other factors may
also be present in this condition. If caught in its early stages,

chemistry

responds well to physical therapy, stretch
ing, diet, and stress-management practices, including breathing and
imagery, all strategies that help support your healing system.
rheumatoid arthritis often

Disorders of the Hands, Feet, and Extremities

Hand Problems
The hands

are

are a common

subject

to overuse

site for the

and abuse, and

occurrence

of arthritis,

consequently they
particularly in later

years. This arthritis is often due to chronic tension in the fingers,
which eventually causes the muscles to fix the joints in a particular

subsequently leads to irritation, swelling, inflamma
tion, and joint pain.
Working with your healing system by addressing the underlying
causes of these problems, along with regular gentle extension of the
muscles and tendons that control the movement of the fingers, can
help reverse and prevent this problem. Arthritis of the hands is easier
to manage or cure if you catch it early and if you incorporate meth
ods that work with your healing system into your daily life.
position,

which

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal

tunnel

syndrome

is

a

chronic condition of the wrists related

joints. Surgery is often performed in more
severe cases. However, this condition responds well to methods that
work with your healing system, such as physical therapy and gentle,
persistent stretching like that found in yoga therapy. In fact, the
effectiveness of yoga therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome was docu
mented in a study that appeared in the Journal of the American
to overuse

of the wrist

Medical Association.

Foot Problems

weight of your body, and if you do not
they can cause endless miseryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;so much so,

plantar fasciitis, and plantar warts are all common
conditions of the feet. They are often caused by improperly fitted
shoes, or imbalances created by improper movement while walking,
standing, jogging, or participating in sports and other strenuous
activities. Although these conditions are so painful at times that they
can be incapacitating, they can usually be reversed quite readily once
the underlying causes are addressed. Stretching the muscles of the
feet, toes, and legs; taking warm foot baths; going barefoot when
ever possible; and applying gentle, soothing natural creams such as
turmeric or calendula that soften the skin and support healing
processes all serve as valuable aids to your healing system as it works
to alleviate these conditions. Additionally, wearing roomy, comfort
able shoes and getting regular foot massages can often help your
healing system correct these problems. Reflexology is a type of mas
sage that involves nerve meridians that connect areas of the feet to
other parts of the body; it can be very effective for problems involv
ing the nerves and muscles of the feet.

Disorders of the

Spine

Spine

disorders represent a special and more complex aspect of mus
joint diseases. There are 24 joints in the human spine,

culoskeletal
and each

one

is

subject

to a

potential problem

if it is

not

properly

cared for.

Back Pain
Back

is the

single most common cause of work disability in the
Approximately 100 billion dollars is spent annually
on this problem. Back pain comes in various forms and severity and
is associated with common diagnostic names such as spinal arthritis,
spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, ankylosis
spondylitis, scoliosis, herniated and ruptured discs, spinal stenosis, and
sciatica. Long-standing histories of poor posture, stress, physical
pain

United States.

Conquering

321

Common Health Conditions

abuse, repetitive injuries, and inadequate diet often contribute

to

these conditions.

long-standing, stubborn cases of back pain can be reversed if
underlying causes and use methods that work with
your healing system, such as developing proper spine mechanics, gentle
stretching, eating a healthy, wholesome diet, and managing stress. In
my previous book, Healing Back Pain Naturally, I address the underly
ing causes, treatment, and ways to prevent this common, debilitating
group of maladies in a simple, organized manner that will allow you to
work with your healing system to overcome these problems.
Even

you address the

Circulatory System

Disorders

Heart Disease
Heart disease is the number-one killer in the Western
in several forms. The

comes

most common

world, and it

type of heart disease,

known

as coronary artery disease, is caused by atherosclerosis, or clog
of
the arteries of the heart. Coronary artery disease can lead to
ging
sudden death from heart attack and claims more lives than all other

diseases combined,

including cancer, diabetes, accidents, or infections.

High-fat diets,

stress,

lack of exercise,

repression

inhibition of emotions, social isolation, and
have been shown

a

of anger and
intimacy all

lack of

be

significant contributing factors to heart dis
groundbreaking work on the reversal of
heart disease without drugs or surgery is based on a program that
incorporates simple, yet powerful, natural methods that work with
your healing system. These include eating a low-fat diet, performing
moderate but regular exercise, practicing stress management and
relaxation, and learning how to express emotions and share feelings
in

a

to

Dr. Dean Ornishâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ease.

group environment. When you learn to work with
system, even the worst and most dangerous disease in

supportive

your

healing

the world

High

can

be healed

naturally.

Blood Pressure

Also known

as

hypertension, high blood pressure is referred to
a serious circulatory disease that, if not

silent killer.â&#x20AC;? It is

as

â&#x20AC;&#x153;the

treated

322

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

properly, can cause heart disease and stroke. This common disease is
caused by constriction and narrowing of the arteries and smaller
blood vessels, which increases the pressure of the blood flow inside
them. The effect is similar to what happens when you place your
thumb

finger over the end of a garden

or

hose

to

spray the

water out

further and faster.
Because the smooth muscles that control the diameter of your
blood vessels are, in turn, controlled by nerves that are connected to
your

brain, your blood pressure

become elevated when you

are

when you are upset, excited, frightened,
or worried. Conversely, when you are calm and relaxed, your blood
pressure tends to automatically become lower.
under

stress.

This

can

Medicines

can occur

available

are

to

artificially

control

high

blood pres

sure, but many of them have side effects that can interfere with the
quality of your life. Whether or not you are currently taking med

ications, it is critical for you to work with your healing system by
learning how to relax and manage your stress to help bring your
blood pressure down. Lowering your blood pressure this way will
lower your risk of stroke and heart disease and reduce your depend

medications.

ence on

Losing weight

has also been shown

to

reduce

blood pressure, as has exercise. In addition to cutting out caffeine
and nicotine, which are both known to elevate blood pressure, some
natural medicines
lation and

circulatory disorder most often caused by
underlying complications of long-standing high blood pressure. The
prolonged, increased pressure in the blood vessels that go to the
brain eventually causes the vessels to burst, rupture, and bleed. A
Stroke is

a

well-known

second mechanism that

causes

stroke

occurs

when small blood clots,

from

an irregularly beating heart, become lodged
usually generated
in the brainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s circulatory paths and clog the blood vessels that nour

ish the brain.

Stroke, which

commonly
arm

and

such

as

a

can

results in

leg.

severely incapacitating and even fatal, most
paralysis of one side of the body, typically an

Other

be

the face may also be affected,
and cheeks. Speech and swallowing

structures on

the tongue, mouth,

lips,

are
can

often affected.
also

323

Common Health Conditions

Conquering

loss and loss of other mental faculties

Memory

occur.

keep their spirits up during the hard work of
the stroke rehabilitation phase, the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system can often
restore the body to practically normal functioning, although this
process might take months or even years. The body can do this by
accessing duplicate information on the undamaged side of the brain
and transferring it to the affected side, and connecting new nerve
pathways to compensate for the damaged portion that previously
For those who

can

controlled these functions. Once the brain learns
essary

new

muscles

miraculously

healing

system,

lost, many
after

they

even

people

to

can come

back

to

life. Because of the

under circumstances where all

have been able

have suffered

a

make the

nec

seemingly dead, paralyzed limbs and

connections,

to resume

hope

normal lives

bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

appears

once

again

stroke.

Endocrine

System

Disorders

The endocrine system consists of important organs and glands that
produce powerful hormones that are involved in a wide range of
Because of its

functions.

extensive

connections, the endocrine

system may become imbalanced and dysfunctional as the result of
underlying problems elsewhere in the body. For example, nutri

tional and metabolic
vice
is

a

versa.

The

problems

most common

derangement of sugar
deficiency.

or

can

affect the endocrine system, and

endocrine disorder is diabetes, which

glucose metabolism, usually

caused

by

insulin

Chronic
Chronic

Fatigue Syndrome

fatigue syndrome

is

a

relatively

new

and also is somewhat

disorder that is

more

baffling to treat by con
in the treatment
specialize
practices. Experts
of the disorder believe exhaustion of the adrenal glands may be an
important factor. Prolonged stress and a lack of rest appear to be
major factors in chronic fatigue syndrome. Many patients with this
syndrome report extreme fatigue after living hectic, fast-paced lives,
in which the pressures that surround them are enormous and they
common

in

women

ventional medical

who

324

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

relaxed for many years. When the body is under
stress and lacks quality sleep and rest, it is only natural

havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rested
considerable

or

that it will suffer from
With chronic

lack of energy and eventually become fatigued.
fatigue syndrome, there may other concomitant
a

problems, such as yeast infections and fibromyalgia, in addition to
accompanying depression and other psychological factors that fur
ther deplete physical energy and prevent the condition from healing
sooner. Psychological factors might include the fear of getting well
and becoming overwhelmed again by the demands of work and
other responsibilities. These factors may serve as impediments to the
healing systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to do its job in a timely and efficient manner.
To prevent this from happening, and to work with your healing
system to restore natural health and energy~ it is imperative to incor
porate adequate sleep and rest into your lifestyle; focus on a healthy,
wholesome diet; drink plenty of fluids; practice stress management;
and participate in a regular physical exercise and movement program.
Diabetes
diabetes and the stages of this ill
ness. The two main types of diabetes have traditionally been broken
down into Type I, juvenile onset, insulin-dependent diabetes and Type

There

II,

several ways

are

maturity

onset,

or

to

classify

adult diabetes, which often

starts out as non-

insulin

dependent, but may become insulin dependent over time.
Insulin dependent refers to the need to inject insulin from a syringe
body to help bring your blood sugar under control.
The danger of high blood sugar, which is the common denom
inator of all types of diabetes, is that it can damage blood vessels in
the eyes, causing blindness. It can also damage the kidneys, causing
kidney failure, and contribute to other problems, such as nerve
damage, and chronic skin ulcers on the feet and ankles, as well.
There also is a strong associated risk of heart disease in people who
into your

suffer from diabetes.

maturity onset, Type II diabetes has been traditionally
obesity~ a diet high in sugar, and a lack of exercise. It also

Adult,
linked

to

appears

to

unresolved

or

be related

grief,

and diet, which in
disease.

Although

to stress,

depression,

emotional

conditions that influence
turn

some

significantly

personal

influence the

researchers have tried

to

upheaval,

and

health habits
course

of this

link this form of

Conquering

diabetes

325

Common Health Conditions

to

genetic causes, the evidence clearly points more toward
including stress and diet, since this type of diabetes

lifestyle factors,

developing countries, but on the rise in Western countries.
good news is that this type of diabetes can be reversed when you
catch it early and apply methods that work with your healing system.
The juvenile form of diabetes, Type I, occurs at a much younger
is

rare

in

The

often be

age and

can

juvenile

diabetes

In the past, many experts believed that
autoimmune illness triggered by a virus or

severe.

was an

another infection, but

research

points

interactions that

occur

newer

toward

stress

and

during periods of
deranged mind-body
intense emotional upheaval in the individual or family, or during
gestation. This changed perspective is due in part to the discovery
that insulin communicates directly with the brain and is now classi
fied as a neuropeptide or neurotransmitter, rather than as a pure
hormone. The
vation that

current

more

view is further based

insulin

can

be found

at

on

any

the scientific obser

one

time in the brain

than in any other organ or structure in the body.
Newer treatments for diabetes that address the

underlying
merely manage the symptoms, involve methods
that work with your healing system. These treatments include eating
a proper diet, getting adequate exercise, practicing stress-manage
ment
techniques, drinking plenty of water, taking natural
medications, and addressing the deeper emotional, mental, and spir
itual factors that may be driving this unhealthy condition. These
strategies are obviously more effective if they are instituted in the
early stages of the illness. Insulin may be required until these other
methods are well established, but a large number of patients have
successfully weaned themselves from insulin dependence in a rela
tively short period of time. During my tenure as a medical student
more than 20 years ago, getting patients off insulin was considered
an impossibility. If diabetes happens to run in your family, focus on
incorporating preventive strategies before the illness has a chance to
surface in your body.
causes,

rather than

Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid dysfunction is more common in women than in men, and
it occurs fairly frequently. It occurs in several forms, most com
monly hypothyroidism, or low production of the thyroid hormone,

326

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

which

usually requires supplementation. When iow thyroid func
thyroid hormone replacement, there is an
increase in metabolism, greater energy, improved mood, and loss of
weight. These are desirable qualities for an overweight person who
may suffer from fatigue and depression, but the long-term effects
of supplementing with thyroid hormone when it may not be
absolutely necessary are unknown.
Additionally, because the thyroid gland is under the domain of
the pituitary gland, which is under the domain of the hypothalamus
and the brain, thyroid dysfunction usually indicates problems
higher up the chain of command, which need to be addressed if one
is to get to the root of the problem. Unfortunately, Western medi
cine usually ignores these underlying causes in the treatment of
thyroid conditions.
In many cases, you can support your healing system by address
ing the underlying factors that may be responsible for thyroid
dysfunction, such as stress, dietary imbalances, lack of exercise, and
an unhealthy lifestyle. Implementing the methods that strengthen
and fortify your healing system, as shared in previous chapters, can
be most helpful.
tion is corrected with

Immune-System
Very

little

was

known about the

Disorders

powerful

and

sophisticated

intrica

cies of the immune system before the onset of the devastating AIDS
epidemic. We still have a long way to go, but, because of AIDS and
the HIV virus, today we know much more than ever before.

Allergies
person is created as
have specific sensitivities

Every

a

unique

certain substances

to

conditions. These sensitivities, if

develop

into

the skin and

an

allergy~

respiratory

under these separate

Allergies
system

at

a

The

individual and

prolonged

or

or

result may
environmental

as a

pronounced,

can

types of allergies affect
have already discussed those

most common

system, and

we

headings.

often system specific. This means that only one
time may be sensitive to a particular substance. For
are

Conquering

example, if dust is breathed into
coughing, wheezing, and a runny
skin, dust

327

Common Health Conditions

not cause

may

the

the dust may cause
but if it is placed on the

lungs,

nose,

any reaction at all. A substance that causes
cause any reaction whatsoever when it is

allergic rash may not
placed on the skin, chewed, swallowed, and eaten.
To overcome allergies in general, focus on building up the
health of the specific system that is affected by the allergy. Employ
the methods discussed in previous chapters that strengthen and for
tify your healing system as it relates to the affected system.
an

Chemical and

Drug Allergies

Chemical and

drug allergies are common with medications and in
settings. These include allergies to medicines such as peni
cillin and other antibiotics; mineral dyes, such as iodine; and other
drugs or chemicals. These allergies may show up in the form of a
skin rash, or they may even result in a serious, life-threatening situ
medical

ation.

Effective conventional medications

help

manage and suppress the

ever

cause.

For

long-term

acute

currently available to
symptoms of allergy from what

treatment,

are

however, it is better

not

to

suppress your symptoms, but instead to work with your healing
system to overcome the allergy. You can do this by carefully observ

ing how your body interacts with each and every suspected allergen
in your environment. Even though discovering the true source of

allergy may require a bit of tedious detective work, if you coop
with your healing system in this manner, sooner or later you
will be able to identify the offending agent, take precautions to
any

erate

avoid further exposure

unhealthy

influence

Food

Allergies

Food

allergies

are

on

less

or

your

contact

with

it, and eliminate its

body.

common

than those of the skin and

respira

tory system. Food allergies include conditions that may not be true
allergies, such as lactose intolerance, one of the most common of all

suspected food allergies. With lactose intolerance, the body lacks a
specific enzyme and is simply unable to digest foods that contain
lactose, which is a simple sugar found in dairy products. This
enzyme is lacking in the majority of people from the Orient and

328

Activating

Your

many other parts of the world. In

Healing System

When Youre Sick

fact, lactose intolerance is

not a

but

merely a normal variant found in certain ethnic
suspected allergies have similar stories.
groups. Many
Many synthetic chemicals used in industry are harmful and
irritating to the human body. Because new synthetic chemicals are
continuously being introduced into our food supply, it is not
surprising to find that food-related allergies are becoming more
common. To minimize the risk of exposure to such allergens, it is
important to know exactly what you are introducing into your body
when you eat. Variety is the spice of life, but to avoid food allergies,
avoid foods with chemical additives whenever possible.
Cooperate with your healing system by eating foods from
organic and natural sources that are free from chemical pesticides,
pollutants, and additives. You can also work with your healing
system to keep your digestive system free from irritating and toxic
substances by consuming plenty of fluids and fiber, and practicing
good intestinal hygiene.
true

allergy

other

Acquired
AIDS is

Immune

Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

example of what can happen to your body when the
immune system is impaired. When the immune system is compro
mised, your body can become afflicted by organisms that cause
an

infections and disorders that, under normal circumstances, would
not occur.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Where the HIV virus

initially

came

from is still controversial,

but it is clear that those whose immune systems are already impaired
and worn down are at higher risk. This virus can be found among

people with multiple sexual partners, repeated intravenous drug use,
or poor personal health habits.
AIDS is entirely preventable by practicing safe sex, abstaining
from illegal intravenous drug use, and avoiding blood transfusions
from unknown sources. The additional good news is that many
people currently afflicted with HIV are learning to work with their
healing systems to improve their health. This approach includes
concentrating on healthy diets, drinking plenty of fluids, exercising,
practicing stress management, including visualization/imagery
techniques, and relying on natural medicines and modalities that
support the rebuilding and restoration of the immune system. Many

Conquering

329

Common Health Conditions

people with HIV are now symptom free, and, in selected cases, a
complete conversion from HIV positive back to HIV negative has
been reported.
In the beginning much shame was associated with HIV infec
tion, but those with this condition who

able

love and accept
themselves, and to open up to the loving support that is available
from their families, friends, and communities, seem to have the
are

to

dealing with this difficult problem. As infected
individuals learn to strengthen, fortif~r, and cooperate with their
bodiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; healing systems, it is highly likely that this disease will one
day be declared completely curable, as has happened with other
greatest

success

in

dreadful diseases from the past.

Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis
reaction that

fish

stings;

occur as

a

is

a

less

common

but

more

serious form of

an

allergic

and bites

by

with bee, wasp, and other insect stings; jelly
other venomous animals. Anaphylaxis also can

reaction

to

other substances,

can occur

including pharmaceuticals.
early

Keeping your mind calm and relaxed is critical in the
stages of severe allergic reactions that might possibly become

phylactic

reactions.

ical factors such

as

calm is essential because

Remaining
stress, anxiety,

and tension

can

ana

psycholog

increase the

symptoms. Stress management and breathing techniques can be
helpful for anaphylaxis, but, as explained in an earlier chapter, it is

techniques before any medical emergency occurs.
To prevent anaphylaxis, be careful with new foods, especially when
you are traveling, and exercise caution when you introduce new
drugs or substances into your body.
best

to

learn these

Autoimmune Diseases

rapidly growing category of illnesses describes conditions that
occur as a result of a derangement in the immune system that causes
it to attack normal body tissues. Illnesses in the autoimmune disease
category include rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus,
Sjogrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s syndrome, scieroderma, and multiple sclerosis, among many

This

others. Some researchers feel that viruses and certain bacteria

trigger

the immune system

to

attack normal

can

body tissues, but new
complex mind-body

research suggests that these conditions represent

330

Activating

interactions because
stress.

they

Your

almost

Healing System

When You’re Sick

during

times of

Behavioral scientists also believe that autoimmune

dysfunc

tion may be

a

worsen

deep-seated hostility, self-hatred,

or

elements of the immune system, acting
under orders from the brain, to inadvertently attack the body. These
resentment

that

reflection of

always

causes

scientists believe that self-destructive

prolonged,

can

lead

to

physical

thoughts,

self-destruction

if

persistent and
through powerful

neurochemicals released from the brain. As the eminent
Dr. Robert Eliot
It is
so

said, “The brain

writes

becoming increasingly clearer

this

origin

current

perspective is

over

not an

prescriptions

cardiologist
body.”

for the

time that this is indeed true,

unreasonable

explanation for the

of many difficult-to-treat autoimmune illnesses.

Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis
Stress and emotional

ventional
and it is

healing
and

is

a

trauma

severe

form of arthritis of the

appear

to worsen

spine.

this condition. Con

is largely focused on suppressing the symptoms,
effective.
not very
Working with methods that support your
system, such as stress management, gentle yoga stretching,
treatment

wholesome, natural diet,

be

extremely helpful for this
condition. In his best-selling book Anatomy of An Illness, Norman
Cousins described his journey of complete recovery from an
advanced case of ankylosing spondylitis. He attributed his success to
learning to use the powers of his mind and body while he incorpo
rated other, simple, natural methods, including large doses of vita
min C and laughter, which activated his healing system to overcome
a

can

this autoimmune disorder.

Multiple
In her

Sclerosis

groundbreaking book Who Said So? A Woman’s Fascinating
Journey ofSelfDiscovery and Triumph over Multiple Sclerosis, Rachelle
Breslow documented the mind-body factors that contributed to her
own case of multiple sclerosis. She was told by her conventional doc
tors that her condition was incurable, but she proved them
wrong.
work
with
her
to
a
By learning
healing system, eating healthy, whole
some diet, incorporating stress-management strategies and positive
mental programming, and initiating other beneficial lifestyle changes,
she was eventually able to overcome this so-called incurable disease.

Conquering

These

331

Common Health Conditions

entirely consistent with a comprehensive pro
on the principles of working with the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing
they demonstrate what is also possible for you.

strategies

gram based
system, and

are

Autoimmune Disorders and Your

In addition

there is

the

to

now

Healing System

of Rachelle Breslow and Norman Cousins,

experiences

growing evidence,

from both clinical

case

reports and labora

tory data collected from various research programs around the country, that
immune

function, operating under the direction of the brain and

system, is
tions.

able

strongly

By learning

to activate

diseases with

influenced

your

your

healing system

suspected

Strategies
following:

by

a

and

emo

constructive way, you may be

overcome

any

one

of

a

number of

origins.

that may be effective for autoimmune disorders include the

Mind-body strategies, including

~J

Stress-management techniques

~

A wholesome,

~

Release of

~

Exercise

~

Group support

ffa

Strengthened

~

Love

healthy

unhealthy

visualization and

guided imagery

diet

emotional

baggage

social intimacy

By incorporating these strategies
to

and

autoimmune

~

ing system

thoughts, attitudes, beliefs,

harness these forces in

to

nervous

significantly

into your

life, you

increase your chances of

can

work with your heal

overcoming

autoimmune

disorders.

Cancer
Before I discuss the
four

common

of the blue

to

strategies

myths
attack

about

for

healing

cancer.

First,

people randomly.

cancer,
cancer

It also is

demons of fate. As with any illness, there

are

I need

does
not

definite

to

address

not come out

caused

by

the

causes, events,

332

Activating

and circumstances that aliow

though

Your

When You’re Sick

Healing System

cancer to

take

root

in the

these factors may

body,

even

elusive. Second,

seem hidden, obscure, or
but rather an entire category of ill
disease,
just
nesses, each with its own specific contributing causes. Third, even
though cancer may congregate in families, the overwhelming major
ity of cancer cases do not have a genetic basis. Fourth, and perhaps
most important, by all measurements, standards, and definitions,

cancer

is

cancer

is

in many

not

one

unnatural illness and disease that

an

cases

overcome,

particularly

if it is

be

prevented,
caught early.
can

and

Cancer appears more commonly where nature’s laws of health
have been violated. As such, it is not surprising to see the highest
among the more modern, industrialized nations of the
where
world,
synthetic, artificial chemicals and substances are used
cancer rates

abundance, and where lifestyles are becoming increasingly hectic,
stressful, and unhealthy. This scenario represents a distinct departure
in

from the

forefathers
simpler, more wholesome ways of life that
and ancestors enjoyed, when cancer was almost nonexistent. In
developing nations, where these simpler, healthier lifestyles are still
somewhat more preserved today, cancer rates are, not surprisingly,
significantly lower than those in modern industrialized nations.
To understand the origins of cancer a little better, it will be help
ful to remember the following important universal scientific
principle that operates in nature and the world of living organisms:
“Any stimulus or force, when applied to a system, will generate a
specific response in return.” For example, when the wind blows
against a tree, it causes the tree to bend. ‘When the sun shines, a
plant or flower will grow toward the direction of the sunlight. When
the sex hormones emitted by females of most species are released in
the air, they create a powerful stimulus that attracts male animals to
their

our

source.

Problems in

nature

develop

when artificial

or

unnatural stimuli

are superimposed on systems that have been programmed to react to
specific, natural stimuli in predictable ways. For example, deer and

frogs,

two

nocturnal animals that become

more

active

at

night,

become mesmerized and freeze in their tracks in response to auto
mobile headlights. They do this because the headlights are artificial
stimuli

not part of their normal nighttime environment. This
abnormal response to an unnatural stimulus is hazardous to the

333

Common Health Conditions

Conquering

health of both deer and

frogs,

and it often

causes

them

to

be hit and

Moths get into similar trouble because
by passing
their nighttime navigational systems are naturally programmed for
run

over

cars.

starlight and moonlight,

but

for artificial

not

lights

or

flames, which

and of much

brighter intensity. To the unsuspecting
propensity to fly straight into a bright light or
flame appears to be nothing short of a suicide mission. In reality; the
movement is caused by an unnatural response to an artificial, unnat
are

nearer

observer,

a

mothâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

ural stimulus.
â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What

occurs

these cells

in the cells of normal tissues in humans and how

turn cancerous

moths when
of cancer
first

is

not

unlike the

starts to

grow, undetected and

when it may first be discovered
underneath the skin.
Before
know

plight

of deer,

frogs,

and

confronted with unnatural stimuli. The story
they
begins here, for it is here, on the cellular level, that cancer
are

more

we

can

continue

our

as

invisible, until
a

blip

on

story, it is

about normal cells, how

an

many years later

X-ray

important

grow, and how

or

a

lump

for you to
they evolve.

they
help explain how your body naturally works,
understand the underlying causes of cancer more clearly.

This information will
so

you will

Normal Cellular Evolution
of conception, your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original two cells mul
tiply, divide, grow, and evolve into three distinct, primitive germ-cell
tissues known as ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. This stage is
From the

moment

completed after just three weeks of gestation. From this stage, accord
ing to precise division-of-labor requirements, your cells embark upon
an orderly, supervised journey of further multiplication, differentia
tion, segregation, and migration. They are eventually assigned to a
particular organ or tissue, where they are programmed to carry out a
specific function. For example, a neuron in the brain is programmed
to conduct electrical impulses and discharge information to nerve
tracts located throughout your body. A cell in your skin is pro
grammed to help grow hair, absorb sunlight, and regulate sweating
and body temperature. Although these cells look completely differ
ent and participate in completely different tasks, in reality, they have
come from the same identical, primitive germ-cell lines, which, in
this particular example, is ectoderm tissue. As different as they

334

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

appear and behave when they have reached full maturity, these cells
continue to communicate with each other and remain functionally

connected

ligence

throughout

your

life, through the

same

organizing

intel

that created them.

Evolution of

a

Cancer Cell

Cancer represents a departure from the highly ordered, natural state
of health that exists within the cells of all living systems. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;When any

cell

repeated irritation and disturbance
from an unnatural stimulus, the cell begins to respond to this stim
ulus by defending itself against further irritation and injury. In so
doing, it changes its appearance and function. In contrast to the
high degree of differentiation all normal cells exhibited, cancer cells,
irrespective of the organ or tissue from which they may have origi
nated, represent a reversion to a more primitive state. In this regressed
state, a cancer cell no longer functions in its previous, highly devel
oped capacity.
As cancer cells regress from their highly differentiated structure
and function, and take on more primitive roles, they relinquish their
connection to the natural, orderly form and function they exhibited
previously. It is as if these cells rebel against the cooperative organi
zation and orderliness of the body that characterizes its natural state
of health and instead break away to form their own aberrant colony.
These changes do not occur overnight, but slowly, sometimes
over many years. These new, more primitive cells now react directly
with the stimulus that caused them to change and adapt, and they
become their own independent, self-assertive, abnormal mass of cells.
These abnormal cells multiply and reproduce at an accelerated
speed to improve their chances of survival. At the cellular level,
cancer is nothing more than a maladaptive response to an abnormal,
unnatural, persistent, irritating, injurious stimulus.
Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look at a common example of how the evolution of cancer
might come about from smoking, where, in the lungs, cancer has
been clearly linked to repeated exposure to cigarette smoke.
o

or

tissue is

subjected

to

Cigarette smoke, which is unnatural and unhealthy, introduces
harsh particles and noxious chemical compounds into the lungs,
where they cause irritation and injury to the cells of the lungs.

Conquering

*

*

335

Common Health Conditions

lungs attempt to mend the damage from the
irritation and injury the smoke has caused. At the same time,
the cells also attempt to defend themselves from further damage
as more smoke continues to enter into the lungs.

The cells in the

As the cells work without any rest to try to repair the damage to
the lungs and to prevent further damage, the continued input of

smoke

normal mechanisms of healing and

disrupts

repair.

days, weeks, months, and years that a person contin
ues to smoke, damage to the cells in the lungs is never allowed
to heal. On top of this, more damage is created as more smoke
enters into the lungs.

*

Over the

*

The continuous and
the delicate cells that
tective

Because the cells

manner.

the smoke

persistent damage from the smoke causes
are in the lungs to react in a defensive, pro

begins

to

change

are

now

in â&#x20AC;&#x153;survival

mode,â&#x20AC;?

their basic characteristics. This

process is called mutation. Mutation is an adaptation response
of the cell to changes in the external environment. In this case,
mutation is

a

way that the

lung

cells

can

adapt and survive in
cigarette smoke.

the face of the continuous irritation from the

mushrooming growth, characteristic of a cancerous tumor,
eventually appears after many years in response to the repeated
unnatural, injurious stimulus of the smoke.

*

A

*

In many

cases,

if smoking

ceases

and continuous

damage to the
lungs can
unhealthy

cells of the lungs stops, healing processes in the
resume and continue undisturbed. Cessation of the

healing system to repair and regenerate new,
replacing the mutating cells with normal,

stimulus allows the

healthy
healthy, lung

tissues,

cells.

From this

example, it is
more than a good cell turned
abuse, irritation, and injury.

obvious that
bad in

an

a

effort

This cell

cancer

to

cell is

nothing
repeated
the region

heal from

eventually turns
so dreadfully fear. Cancer
that
an irritating, disruptive,
can occur anywhere in your body
unnatural stimulus is repeatedly applied to the cells of otherwise
normal, healthy tissues. Once the injurious stimulus is removed,
into the

monster

called

cancer

that

we

all

336

Activating

however,

your

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

system always has the ability to repair dam
normal health and functioning to any organ or

or nuclear-energy leakage, as witnessed at both Hiroshima
Chernobyl, causes cancers of the skin, immune system, and
other internal organs. In most cases, however, cancer is a gradual
process, requiring many years of repeated unnatural irritation and
injury to tissues at the cellular level.
Cancer is also linked to toxic drugs or chemicals. Intestinal can
cers can often occur with the repeated ingestion of certain foods,
substances, or chemicals that continually irritate the lining of the
stomach or intestines. This commonly occurs in Japan, where high

and

of stomach

rates

cancer

have been linked

smoked fish, which contain toxic,
alcohol
cause

can cause

cancer,

cancer

as

liver

cancer.

to

irritating

excessive

drug DES,

of

substances. Too much

Certain medicines and

occurred with the

amounts

drugs

which caused

can

also

thyroid

in the children of mothers who took this medication.

the

irritating stimulus that precipitates cancer may
a
produced by your own body, but in excess.
An example of this might be hydrochloric acid, secreted in normal
amounts
by your stomach during digestion. During times of
increased stress and mental agitation, however, hydrochloric acid
can be produced in excess. Excess hydrochloric acid can cause irrita

Additionally,

be

natural substance

tion, inflammation, and ulcers in your stomach, and intestines,
which

can

evolve into

cancer.

Neurotransmitters, chemical messengers, and other

powerful
produced by your brain and endocrine system can also
exert an irritating, injurious effect on specific organ tissues. When
stress or unhealthy moods or emotions repeatedly generate excessive
amounts of these chemicals over an extended period of time, they
can become powerfully unhealthy, irritating, and abnormal stimuli
to the cells of specific organs. This constant stimulation results in
the disruption of normal tissue structure and function, and can
eventually lead to cancer. The largest number of cancers now occur
ring fall into this category.
hormones

Conquering

337

Common Health Conditions

Cancer Prevention

promise of finding a cure for cancer lies in understanding its
origins and focusing more on prevention than on treatment. Many
experts advocate early screening measures to detect cancer; but, in
many cases, by the time the cancer is detected, it may already be well
established and difficult to eradicate. Although cancer is certainly
easier to treat if itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s caught in its early stages, it is still far better to
prevent it before it has a chance to take hold in the body.
Studies conducted in places around the world where cancer is
noticeably absent can provide important clues to the direction we
need to take with cancer research and prevention. Some of the crit

The

ical factors

to

consider include

lifestyles,

health habits, foods,

medicines, beliefs, and mental attitudes of the populations being
studied. We

can

be

hopeful

about the

possibility

of

a

cancer-free

begin to learn from these cancer-free societies, and insti
tute changes in our own lives that support and strengthen our
healing systems, incorporate ideas and methods from those cultures
that place a strong emphasis on prevention, and continue cancer

future if we

research and

our

quest for

a cure.

Working with Your Healing System
As

our

than
come

knowledge

and

understanding

to

Heal Cancer

increase,

more

people today

before have gone into complete remission and have over
cancer. Currently, 8 million Americans who have gone into

ever

remission after their medical

of these

cures

have

come

treatments are now cancer

about

using

conventional

free.

Many

treatments,

such

surgery, drugs, and radiation, while others represent a combina
tion of conventional and alternative therapies. These methods
as

include the

of natural medicines, exercise, diet and

lifestyle
specific mind-body techniques that work to activate
and stimulate the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healing system. Guided-imagery and visu
alization techniques successfully employed by cancer specialists Dr.
0. Carl Simonton and Dr. Bernie Siegel, as well as others, have been
extremely effective in helping motivated people overcome their can
cers. Learning to express emotions in a healthy way and reaching out
for loving support are also highly effective in helping the healing
system overcome cancer. And although there are times when sur
gery, radiation, and chemotherapy may be necessary to shrink
changes,

use

and

338

Activating

and

Your

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Healing System

lesions from your body to aid the
work of your healing system, it is important to remember that ulti
mately you must not view cancer as something that has invaded
tumors

remove

cancerous

body from the outside, but rather, as a disease primarily of
origins and causes. External agents of healing may be help
ful, but your internal resources for healing are far more vast and
powerful, and you should not ignore or neglect them.
Remember that cancer represents a regression of form and func
tion by a specific group of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cells as the result of an
unhealthy stimulus that has caused them to lose their unique identity,
design, and purpose. In addition, this unhealthy stimulus has broken
the connection these cells have to the rest of your body. If you can dis
cover the unhealthy stimulus in your life and remove it, you will be
well on your way to healing. Additionally, if you can bring your
mental energies, awareness, and desire to cooperate with your healing
system to deep inside your body, you will be in a much better posi
your

internal

tion

to overcome

Here

are

a

your illness and reclaim your natural

number of effective

measures

state

can

you

of health.

take

to

heal

cancer:

o

Remove all toxic,

such

body,

as

stimuli and substances from your
smoke, alcohol, and junk food, as well as

offending

cigarette

all toxic environmental stimuli.
o

Eat

wholesome diet, with lots of fresh fruits,

a

vegetables,

and

natural fiber.
o

Drink

o

Exercise

each

plenty

of fluids.

regularly

but

not

strenuously

for

at

least 30 minutes

day.

healing system

and internal

for

healing.

o

Focus

o

Remember that your thoughts and attitudes affect your physiol
ogy. Use the power of your mind to create healthier internal

on

your

chemistry

for your

resources

body.

o

Release all tension, anger,
from your mind and body.

o

Release all self-destructive

hostility

thoughts,

and self-condemnation, and all

all

resentment,

thoughts

negative

and

grudges

of worthlessness

beliefs about

yourself.

Conquering

*

relax your body and mind
management and meditation to the
Learn

to

your natural
*

339

Common Health Conditions

Practice

state

of peace and inner

forgiveness

completely.
point

Practice

that you

can

stress
access

tranquility regularly.

of yourself and others.

guided-imagery and visualization techniques that are appro
priate for your condition. Make them deeply personal and
detailed, according to your own specific needs. Use these tech
niques to dialogue with your body and establish a line of
Use

communication with your cancer cells. To boost your confi
dence in healing, focus on the elements of your body that are
healthy and functioning well. Talk to your healing system.

imaging dialogue, remind the
precise division of labor for which
they were originally created, you value and appreciate their role,
and that, in the spirit of cooperation for the greater health of
your body, you sincerely request their assistance in healing.
Enlist its
cancer

*

help.

In your internal

cells that, based

Use discretion and

on

the

common sense

but be

in

choosing

Consider all available

open-minded.
posal, including all conventional

your treatments,

means at

your dis

and natural methods that have

proven track records. Continue to focus all your energies and
intentions on reversing the disease process until your natural
state of health has been restored.
*

Understand that

may be

gradual process. For
the cancer to develop, evolve, and grow in your body was a grad
ual process, and you must allow at least an equal amount of time
for the cancer to disappear back into the matrix of your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s
naturally healthy cells, organs, and tissues. Just as Rome was not
built in one day, so, too, restoration of health may take time.
Never act out of a sense of desperation or hurry, because true
healing cannot take place under these circumstances. Remember
that your healing system works best in a quiet, calm, relaxed
reversing

cancer

a

internal and external environment.
*

healing your number-one priority in life. Remember that
by bringing your awareness deep inside of your body, you have
the power to activate your healing system and positively influ
ence the health of every single organ, tissue, and cell. Remember
Make

that your natural

state

is health.

340

Your

Activating

Healing System

When Youre Sick

Closing Thoughts on
Conquering Health Conditions
healing system has been designed and built to keep you healthy
through every conceivable challenge life could possibly throw your

Your

way. Even illnesses believed
set

you

to

be incurable

into motion the chain of

can

be

events

overcome

to

when

stimulate the

necessary
system. Naturally, the longer you have had a
the longer the period of time required for healing.

activity of your healing

particular disease,

In this respect, it is
you

set

about the

important

diligent

to

cultivate the fine

art

of patience

as

work of incorporating all of the ideas and

methods outlined in this and

previous chapters.

Patience and perse

verance are required to support the work of your healing system so
it can restore your body to its natural state of health in the shortest

time

period.
long

As

age, there

as

are

you

ways

are

to

healing

alive,

you have

and

healthy
tip-top shape.

stay

healing

power. Even

overcome

as

you

illness

by keeping
have a healing

Because you
system in
if
commitment
and
resolve
are sufficient, there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a
system,
your
disease on the face of this earth that can stand in the way of reclaim

your

ing

your natural

state

of health.

Additional Relaxation Methods,

Breathing Techniques, and Guided-Imagery
Techniques to Strengthen Your Healing System

n

this section of the book,

methods for

tapping

into

you’ll learn additional techniques and
the extraordinary power of your healing

system.

Relaxation Methods
and

Fortify Your

Strengthen
Healing System
to

Like any artist who requires a quiet, peaceful, uplifting environment
to concentrate and perform his or her best work, your healing
system does its best work when you

Nature, in her infinite wisdom, has created the natural
because the relaxation you get from sleep is essential
health and well-being. When you are sleeping,, your body’s

cycle

logical

processes

are

minimized,

to

sleep
your

physio
quiets

your internal environment

healing system can work optimally to restore your
health. After a good night’s sleep, you should feel refreshed,
renewed, and invigorated to begin the new day. When responding
to their patients’ health problems, many doctors will tell them,
down, and

your

342

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

morning.” They know that
most problems are not as serious the next day, thanks to the magi
cal, healing, and restorative powers of sleep.
When we have trouble getting to sleep, and when we fail to take
advantage of the natural, restorative powers of sleep, insomnia can
set in. Health suffers and illness can easily take hold when we don’t
get enough sleep.
During our waking hours, however, it is also important to be
relaxed. In fact, one of the major causes of insomnia is the inability
to relax during waking hours. Relaxation used to be a natural aspect
built into our lifestyles, but today our lifestyles have become so fastpaced that we don’t have time to relax. Further, even if we had the
“Take

time,

two

we

aspirins

and call

me

wouldn’t know how

When

we are not

to

in the

do it.

relaxed, but

are

instead

tense or

excited, the

response can become activated. As you may recall
earlier discussions (see Chapter 6), the fight-or-flight

fight-or-flight
from

our

response

occurs

whenever

we are

frightened,

tense,

or

feeling threat

ened in any way. This response results in the release of adrenaline,
which causes the speeding up of our heartbeat and breathing,
among other things. The fight-or-flight response is definitely help
ful when our life is actually being threatened; however, when the
response is elicited

energies,

frequently and sustained over time,

weakens host-resistance factors, lowers

our

it drains vital

bodies’ defens

healing systems. For these
reasons, when tension becomes chronic and long lasting, it is easy
for illness to step in and invade our bodies. In fact, long-standing
tension is one of the key underlying factors in the development and
progression of many chronic degenerative diseases.
es,

and interferes with the work of

our

To neutralize the harmful effects of tension and

aging
how

effects of the

to

relax. In

so

reverse

the dam

fight-or-flight response, it is important to learn
doing, you will be strengthening and fortif~ring

your healing system in a most fundamental way.
I am continually amazed at how many people don’t know
never learned how to relax. When I inquire, most people report

that

need

or

to

kind of external prop or activity, such as
TV, a mind-altering substance such as alcohol

they
reading or watching
or a tranquilizer, or a combination of these, to wind down from
their busy days and help relieve their tensions. These methods and

me

some

Additional Methods and

activities often feel

343

Techniques

relaxing, but,

in

most

instances, the mind is still

actively engaged. Or, at the cost of achieving mental relaxation, con
sciousness, proper judgment, and the body’s health (most common
ly the liver’s) are sacrificed. At best, these methods and devices are
only temporary and achieve only a small fraction of the relaxation
that the healing system requires to function optimally. Additionally,
they usually have harmful side effects that neutralize whatever ben
efits they might contribute.
In our high-speed modern lifestyles, learning how to relax is,
unfortunately, a lost art, and one reason why many stress- and ten
sion-related disorders

Europe.
recent
est

These diseases

are

on

the increase in North America and

are not

in the minor

research has determined that

hitters in the annals

leagues, either; rather,

include

some of the heavi
they
of international public health. As mentioned

earlier, among these diseases are heart disease (the world’s numberone killer), high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, and cancer. To
overcome these diseases and improve our health, it is imperative that
we

relearn what

more

once was a

organic lifestyles:

how

natural process, built into
to relax.

True relaxation involves the natural

our

simpler,

quieting down and calming
to a point at which a feeling of deep peace and comfort
permeates every part of your body. True relaxation improves your
overall health by calming and soothing your body’s internal environ
ment so your healing system can function and perform at its best.
As we learn, practice, and experience regular relaxation, many ill
nesses and diseases can be totally eradicated, never to return again—
including the heavy hitters previously mentioned. Many scientific
studies can attest to the power and efficacy of relaxation, which is an
essential ingredient for lifelong, natural health. I might add that
beyond the immediate benefits of the actual relaxation practices and
techniques, a spillover effect occurs in the rest of your waking hours.
These benefits accrue over time to produce greater health, much like
a high-interest-bearing account grows larger and stronger over time.
In preparation for practicing the relaxation techniques, it is
important to secure a 20- to 30-minute time slot for yourself during
which you can be quiet and alone. Make sure you won’t be disturbed
during this period, and that you have no responsibilities to attend
to—no phone or pager to answer, no diapers to change, no stove or
of your mind

344

Activating

oven to

turn

off, and

so on.

Your

Find

Healing System

a room

When You’re Sick

where you

can

close the

door and be free from all distractions. (You may need to wear
earplugs or headphones if it is noisy.) Make sure you are not cold.
Whatever your position, you may need to place blankets or pillows
under your knees, head, or back to ensure your comfort.
Normally, when you are performing relaxation techniques or

breathing

exercises, it is

preferable

breathe

through your nose.
following techniques, you might
to

Before you proceed with any of the
find it helpful to get a small tape recorder and record your voice as you
read the instructions out loud, slowly and calmly. After you have
recorded your words, you will have your own voice recorded,
you any time you wish. Or, if you wish, you can just read
each

technique

twice before you attempt

once or

Relaxation for Your

Progressive

to

practice

guide
through

to

it.

Healing System

technique for people who are chron
especially useful for people who
ically
“high strung.”
have never experienced what it feels like to be relaxed. For people
who have trouble with the Deep Relaxation technique described ear
lier in Chapter 6, Progressive Relaxation offers another simple yet
powerful way to learn how to relax.
This is

wonderful relaxation

a

It is

tense or

The
n

Technique

Lie down in

a

comfortable

position

with your feet about shoul

der width apart. Keep your hands along the side of your body,
with your palms facing up. Adjust any part of your body to
make sure you are comfortable before you proceed.

Gently
body.
D

close your eyes, and

Now, shift your
breath

deep

as

awareness

tighten

you

bring your
to

and

awareness

inside of your

your feet and toes. Take a long,
tense all the muscles in your feet

hard as you can, and hold all the muscles
in your feet and toes in a tight, contracted state. Count to eight
in your mind as you squeeze the muscles tight. Do not force or

bring your awareness to your ankles, lower legs, knees,
and thighs. Take a long, deep breath as you tighten and tense all
the muscles in your ankles, lower legs, knees, and thighs.
Squeeze as hard as you can, and hold these muscles in a tight,
contracted state while you slowly count to eight in your mind.
Hold your breath as you are squeezing. After a good, long,
strong squeeze, let go of your squeezing and at the same time
slowly let your breath out, allowing these muscles to relax on
their own. Allow these muscles to relax as you slow and deepen
your breathing, gently, without forcing or straining. Continue
Next,

let go of all muscular efforts of squeezing these muscles.
Continue to relax your muscles while you gently slow your
to

With each exhalation of your breath, allow whatever

breathing.

tension exists in these muscles
a

Now,

bring

and lower

your

spine.

awareness to

Take

a

to

leave your

body.

hips, pelvic

your

breath

long, deep

as

area,

you

buttocks,

tighten

and

tense all the muscles in your hips, pelvic area, buttocks, and
lower spine. Squeeze as hard as you can, and hold these muscles

let your breath out, allowing these muscles to relax on their own.
Allow these muscles to relax as you gently slow and deepen your

breathing,
efforts

to

without

forcing

or

straining.

let go of all
relax your muscles

Continue

squeeze these muscles. Continue

to

to

and your breathing. With each exhalation of your breath, allow
whatever tension exists in these muscles to leave your body.
a

Next,

bring

chest. Take

your

a

awareness

long, slow, deep

to

your stomach,

breath

as

you

abdomen, and

tighten and tense all

the muscles in your stomach, abdomen, and chest. Squeeze
these muscles as hard as you can, and hold them in a tight, con
tracted

state

while you

slowly count

to

eight

in your mind. Hold

346

Your

Activating

your breath

as

allowing

out,

these muscles

breathing,

to

squeezing. After a good, long, strong
squeezing, and at the same time let your

these muscles

relax

without

on

their

own.

Allow

relax your muscles and your
With each exhalation of your breath, allow whatever

bring

Now,

relax

you gently slow and deepen your
forcing or straining. Let go of all efforts to

tension exists in these muscles
0

to

as

squeeze these muscles. Continue

breathing.

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

are

you

squeeze, let go of your

breath

Healing System

your

awareness

upper back, including the
a long, slow, deep breath

to

to

leave your

body.

the muscles in your middle and

to

between your shoulder blades. Take
you squeeze these muscles as hard as

area
as

you can, drawing your shoulders back slightly while you gently
arch your spine. Hold these muscles in a tight, contracted state

while you

slowly count to eight in your mind. Hold your breath
as you are squeezing. After a good, long,
strong squeeze, let go of
and
the
time
let
at
same
your squeezing,
your breath out, allowing
these muscles

to

relax

on

their

own.

Allow these muscles

to

relax

you slow and deepen your breathing, without forcing or strain
ing. Let go of all efforts to squeeze these muscles. Continue to

squeeze the muscles in your shoulders, arms, forearms, and wrists
as hard as you can, and hold them in a tight, contracted state. Make

clenched fists with both of your hands while you slowly
count to eight in your mind. Hold your breath as you are
squeez
ing. After a good, long, strong squeeze, let go of your squeezing,

tight,

and

at

relax

the

on

time let your breath out, allowing these muscles to
own. Let go of all efforts to squeeze these muscles.

same

their

Allow these muscles

ing,

without

forcing

to

relax

as

you slow and

your breath

or straining.
to relax your muscles
With each exhalation of your breath, allow

and your breathing.
whatever tension that exists in these muscles
o

deepen

Continue

to

leave your

body.

a similar manner, systematically tense,
squeeze, and then
relax all the muscles in the back of your neck and head, as well
as those on the top of your head.

In

Additional Niethods and

347

Techniques

~

In

a

similar way, systematically tense, squeeze, and then relax
your forehead, and all the muscles around your eyes, ears, and
jaws, and all the muscles on your face.

~

In

a

similar

systematically tense,
in your body, until all

manner,

relax all the muscles

squeeze, and then
your muscles have

been tensed and relaxed in this fashion.
*

Next, allow your entire

only

movement

being

body

your stomach and abdomen

conjunction
and

out

with the

of your

lie

limp and relaxed, with the
involuntary movement of
they rise and fall rhythmically, in

to

the automatic,
as

of your breath as it flows in
time the breath leaves your body,

movement

body. Every
body releasing

feel all the muscles in your
ing more relaxed.
Now
your

slowly bring your
breath is flowing

tip of your nose, where
of your body through your

awareness to

in and

out

tension and becom

the

nostrils.
*

Notice the
in and

the

out

rate or

gentle, flowing movement of your breath as it comes
of your body at this point, without trying to control
depth of the movement.

*

Observe your breath
self.

*

As you continue

minutes,

or

if it

were

something different

observe your

to

longer

as

breathing

for

at

from your

least 5

if you desire, let your mind and

to

body

10

relax

completely.
After you

complete this exercise, gently open your eyes and stretch
your entire body. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rush to your next activity. Take the time to
savor the calm and relaxed state you have just experienced. Know that
this is

of

not an

artificial

Focus

or

contrived

state,

but rather your natural
relaxed, natural

in this calm and

state

on remaining
state
being.
throughout the day, until the next time you are able to do this exercise.
Regularly practicing Progressive Relaxation helps to strengthen
and fortify your healing system in a powerful way. If you are current
ly battling a health disorder, practice twice a day for a minimum of
six weeks, and you should see significant gains in your health. If you
are currently healthy, practice Progressive Relaxation once a day for
20 to 30 minutes to prevent illness from invading your body.

348

Activating

Blue

Sky Floating

This relaxation

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Your Back Relaxation

on

like the

Deep Relaxation technique
(see Chapter 6), but this method also incorporates the soothing nat
ural imagery of water and sky. If you have an affinity for these ele
ments, this technique can be extremely effective and powerful.

The

technique begins

Technique

n

Make

s

Keep

sure

are

you

your hands

facing

up,

or

in

a

~

and down
ment

on

your back.

the side of your body, with your palms
fold your hands on top of your stomach and

Gently close
of your body.

Notice in the

position

along

abdomen.

inside

comfortable

area

your eyes, and

bring

your

of your stomach and abdomen the

movement

of your breath

that
as

occurs

awareness

slight

conjunction with the
and out of your body.

in

it flows in

up

move

o

Notice that when the breath flows into your
ach and abdomen gently rise, gently expand.

body,

your

stom

o

Notice that when the breath flows

body,

your

stom

o

out

ach and abdomen

gently fall, gently

Without

control the

trying

to

of your

contract.

rate or

depth

of this

movement,

allow your mind to be a passive observer to the rhythmical flow
of your breath as it moves in and out of your body, causing your

stomach and abdomen

to

rise and fall.

time the breath leaves your

o

body, feel all the muscles in
your body releasing tension and becoming more relaxed. (Note:
There is a natural relaxation phase in your body that occurs
during each exhalation of the breath. When you pay close atten
tion to your body and its breathing processes, you can feel this
relaxation phase quite distinctly.)

Relax all the muscles in your stomach, abdomen, and chest, as
as the muscles in your middle and upper back, including

well
the

between your shoulder blades.

area

•

Relax all the muscles in your shoulders,
hands, fingers, and fingertips.

•

Relax all the muscles in the back of your neck and head, and the
top of your head.

•

Relax your forehead, and all the muscles around your eyes,
and jaws, and on your face.

•

Relax all the muscles in your

•

Continue

down
feel

movement

more

Now,

to

observe your

ears,

body.

up and
in your stomach and abdomen. Continue to

breathing, noticing

the

gentle

relaxed with each exhalation.

keeping

quiet,

serene

all around you. (If you
water, you

can

are not

comfortable

safe and

water.

secure

on

being directly

in the

strong and

secure

a

Above all else, it is

with this

imagery

floating on
sky above and

are

you

lake, and there is blue

imagine yourself floating

rubber inner tube in the

completely

closed, imagine that

your eyes

the surface of a

•

forearms, wrists,

arms,

important to

and this

feel

technique.)

As you continue to breathe in and out in a gentle and relaxed
manner, notice how the water beneath you is soothing and

refreshing to your body. Notice how the vast blue sky above you
is peaceful and refreshing to gaze upon, as if your entire being is
embracing infinity and merging into the heavens.
•

of

and peace in your mind that
extends into every part of your body as you continue to float on
the surface of the water, gazing up into the blue sky. Allow your
Notice

self

to

a

feeling

feel this

lightness

peaceful

sensation of

from the top of your head
•

As you continue

the blue

melting
•

float

on

lightness and
tips
fingers
of your

the surface of the

water,

relaxation
and

toes.

look up

at

sky above you, and allow yourself to feel as if you are
into the expansiveness of the sky and all of creation.

Continue

ity

to

to

the

of this

to

breathe and relax,

experience.

drinking in

the peace and

seren

350

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youre Sick

After you complete this exercise, gently open your eyes, and
stretch your entire body. Make sure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rush to your next

activity. Take the
just experienced.

time

to savor

the calm and relaxed

Know that this is

not

an

state

artificial

or

you have

contrived

state, but rather your natural state of being. Focus on remaining in
this calm and relaxed natural state throughout the day, until the next

time you

are

able

ly brings

the

most

to

do this exercise.

Practicing

this exercise

regular

effective benefits.

Breathing Techniques That
Strengthen and Fortify Your Healing System
Breathing is an activity that you probably take for granted because
your body can breathe on its own, automatically. It usually does so
24 hours a day, seven days a week, without your even being aware of
it. But breathing is a powerful physiological activity that can be
modified, either
der the

to

functioning

your benefit

or

detriment, and

it

can

aid

or

hin

of your

healing system.
Chapter 6, breathing works on many differ
ent levels to influence your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and the performance of
your healing system. And although there is no right or wrong way
to breathe, many people have developed habits of breathing that do
not optimize the performance of their healing systems.
On a mechanical level, breathing affects your posture. Because
As

we

discussed in

the muscles of respiration

move your rib cage and chest, which con
the
vertebrae
in your spine, every breath you take influences
nect to
the alignment of your spinal column. For example, people with

asthma and other chronic

breathing problems are typically shallow
develop restrictive, hunched-forward
positions in their spine, known as kyphosis. Kyphosis further restricts
deep breathing and deprives the body of adequate oxygenation. An
in the Hunchback of
extreme example of kyphosis could be
breathers, and they tend

to

seen

Notre Dame.

a

Breath is also the link between your body and mind, and it exerts
powerful influence on your nervous system. For example, when you

agitated
Conversely,
are

or upset, your breathing becomes shallow and rapid.
when you are relaxed and peaceful, your breathing

Additional Methods and

becomes slower and

351

Techniques

deeper.

The processes

are

interrelated. In fact,

by practicing slow, relaxed, deep breathing, you can calm and relax
your mind and nervous system, while you.improve the oxygenation
of your body’s tissues.
By learning ‘to practice these simple, easy breathing techniques,
which are based on ancient yoga techniques from India, you can
bring more prana, or energy, into your body, and strengthen and
fortif~r’ your healing system.
Because breathing, for the most part, is such a natural, uncon
scious activity, many people have a strong aversion to learning how
to breathe in a way that may initially-feel different or unnatural.
However, based on my 25 years of experience as a doctor who has
studied breathing, and on new scientific studies of breathing, I can
assure ‘you that taking a closer look at your breathing, and commit
ting yourself to’just one or two of the following simple ‘breathing
techniques, will enable you to notice a tremendous improvement in
your overall

state

of health.

Of all the

physical activities you can do to improve your health
and influence your healing system, breathing is one of the most
powerful of all.

Breathing Techniques
traditionally done in a sitting position, but
you’re lying down. The important thing
you
is to make sure’you are in a comfortable position. If you are doing
breathing techniques while you are sitting, keep your spine straight
and your shoulders relaxed. If you are doing these while you are
lying down, you can assume a similar position to that of the Deep
Relaxation (see Chapter 6) or Progressive Relaxation (see the section
in this chapter on relaxation methods) techniques. ‘Whatever your
position, you may need to place blankets or pillows under your knees,
Breathing techniques
can

are

also do them while

head, and back

to ensure

when you

your comfort. Make

sure

you

are not

cold.

performing breathing exercises, as with
techniques, breathing through your nose whenever
possible is preferable.
The beauty of breathing exercises is that you can do them at
numerous intervals throughout the day, from one minute’s duration,
up to 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your schedule. Obviously, the
Normally,

other relaxajion

are

354

Activating

Your

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

sensation is easier for you to feel. Notice this temperature differ
ence between the air moving into your nose and the air moving
out

of your

awareness.
o

o

After

one

you continue to breathe with this increased
Continue to breathe this way for one or two minutes.
nose as

(After you get good at this, you will no longer need to
use your hand.) Now bring your hand back slightly until you can
still just barely feel your breath. As you continue to breathe this

your hand.

way, be
o

aware

out

of your

body.

to hold your awareness at the point at which you can
just barely feel your breath. Continue to hold your awareness at
this point, only now, see whether you can do it without using

Continue

your hand.
o

of how far your breath flows

(Adjusting your

At the furthest

point

may take

awareness

away from your

a

few moments.)

body at which you

are

still

detect your outgoing breath, start to focus
your awareness on the incoming breath. See whether you can
begin to feel the slightly cooler air coming into your body from
able

this

to

just barely

same

cooler air
o

point.
as

it

Continue

begins

to

to enter

focus

at

the

into your

point
body.

of origin of the

As you breathe in, follow the cooler air entering into your body
and notice the place at which it comes in contact with your
nose. Feel the cooler air gently striking your~nose as it enters
into your body, and then continue to follow this air as it moves
into your throat and lungs. Follow your breath further into your
body as it causes your stomach and abdomen to rise and expand.
Feel your breath spreading throughout your entire body with

each inhalation that you take.
o

With each breath you take, continue to follow your incoming
breath as it flows into your body, watching it cause your stom
ach and abdomen to rise and expand.

Additional Niethods and

Continue

t

to

abdomen
*

Now,
at

as

355

Techniques

observe the

gentle

gently shift your

awareness

which you could detect the

Simultaneously feel

of your stomach and

movement

your breath flows in and

of your

out

back

the

to

distant

point

of your breath.

movement

both of these

most

body.

points: 1)

the

point that

is fur

thest away from your body at which you can detect your breath,
and 2) the most interior point within your body at which you
still feel the presence of your breath.

can

*

Hold your awareness between these two extreme points as you
continue’ to observe the automatic, flowing movement of your
breath

*

it flows in and

as

After 5

to

10 minutes,

and release

out

slowly open

body.

your eyes, stretch your

yourself from your seated

“The Pause That Refreshes”
This is

of your

or

Breathing

body,
lying-down position.

Exercise

simple and easy breathing exercise that you
anywhere, while you are sitting or lying down. The
a

the easier it gets, and the
exercise

The
*

correctly,

more

so

Although

it is

preferable

effec

position
your

sit, you may also lie down in a com
breathing technique. Close your eyes,

to

for this

awareness

Bring your

attention

Notice in the

and down
ment

area

to

the

Relax your shoulders

body.

into your

and all the muscles in your

body.
area

of your stomach and abdomen.

of your stomach and abdomen the

movement

of your breath

that
as

occurs

in

conjunction

it flows in and

out

slight

with the

of your

up

move

body.

Notice that when the breath flows into your body, your stom
ach and abdomen gently rise, and when it flows out of your

body,
*

anytime,

you do it,

Technique

bringing

*

more

good, don’t underestimate its power and
strengthening and fortifying your healing system.

fortable

*

do

natural it feels. When you perform this
it is extremely pleasurable. Even though it is simple

and easy, and feels
tiveness in

can

your stomach and abdomen

Without

gently

fall.

trying to control the rate or depth
just allow yourself to be a passive observer to

of this

movement,

the natural flow of

356

Activating

your breath

as

it

moves

Your

in and

Healing System

of your

out

body.

this for several minutes, until you begin to feel
relaxation sweeping over your entire body.
ci

a

Breathe like
sensation of

yourself becoming relaxed, gently slow and
deepen your breathing, so that the time of your inhalation and
exhalation are slightly prolonged. Note, however, that it is
extremely important to do this gradually, without forcing or
Next,

you notice

as

straining.
your
ci

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

Above all else, make

sure

you

are

comfortable with

breathing.

gently lengthen, deepen, and slow your
right before your breath flows into your
breathing,
body, and right before it begins to flow out again, there is a
slight pause between these separate phases of your breathing.
These phases are known as inspiration and expiration, respec
tively. Notice that there are a total of two pauses built into your
bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural breathing cycle.
Now,

as

you continue

to

notice that

ci

As you continue

to

breathe in and

distinct pauses between

slowly, notice
inspiration and expiration.
out

these

two

ci

during the next pause after inspiration, right before you
exhale, gently lengthen the time of the natural pause before you
commence exhaling. Do this in a gentle and soothing way, with
out forcing or straining. If you do it right, you should feel a
slightly pleasurable sensation, especially when you exhale. As
you hold this pause, you may want to gently press your tongue
against the back of your teeth or the top of your palate to make
sure no air escapes during this period.

ci

Now, after

ci

When you

Now,

slight breath pause of one or two seconds,
when you have temporarily suspended movement in your
normal breathing rhythms, gently release the pause and let your
breath out slowly and smoothly, as you would during normal
breathing.
before

a

brief and

are

ready,

expiration,

in your

breathing,

at

after the

once

full

next

the time of the

inspiration,

and

again gently

pause for

one or two

seconds before you let your breath

urally,

you would

during

as

right

natural pause or break
prolong and lengthen this

next

your normal

out nat

breathing cycle.

Addittonat Methods and

•

Continue

During this pause, take a brief inventory of how you feel in your
body and mind. Make sure you are not forcing or straining, and
that you

•

gently prolonging the natural
cycle of breathing between inspira

breathe this way,

to

pause that occurs with each
tory and expiratory phases.
•

357

Techniques

Make

sure

forming

comfortable with your

are

comfortable

are

you

this

powerful breathing

at

breathing.
all times while you

exercise. If you try

the pause longer than you can handle, you will
breath deprivation, discomfort, and a sensation of

to

are

per

prolong

experience

forcing

or

straining. Additionally, the rhythm of your breathing will not be
smooth and flowing, but rather jerky and interrupted. As you
breathe out, and then again as you breathe in, and even during
the pause, your breath should be smooth and flowing, and you
should feel comfortable and pleasurable sensations.
In the

beginning,

5 minutes

at a

do this

time, and

how

and

pleasurable
gentle and soothing,
subtle, and you
you
•

can

can

build up

to

breathing exercise

not more

for

no more

than four times

a

day,

than 3

to

no matter

relaxing you may find it. Even though it is
this technique is also extremely powerful and

overdo it,
20

to

especially in

30 minutes

at a

the

beginning.

In time,

time.

gently prolong the pause between each
inspiration and expiration for up to one minute, or even longer.

Also,

over

time,

you

can

focus your awareness within, and take a brief
inventory of your body and mind during this pause. During the
pause, which is a time of complete cessation of respiration, an
Remember

to

accompanying slowing

down of

mental activities

This

physiological processes and
occurs.
slowing down can be calming and
peaceful, and it is extremely beneficial to your healing system,
which, as you’ll recall, does its best work when your body’s inter
nal environment is quiet and calm.
Breathing exercises calm the mind and body, and they are
extremely beneficial to your healing system. Incorporate these exer
cises into your daily routine, and before long you’ll begin to see their
remarkable effects.

358

Activating

Healing System

Your

When You’re Sick

Guided
and

Imagery to Strengthen
Fortify Your Healing System

Your brain translates mental

into electrical and chemical

images

body. Because of this deep
connection between your brain and your body, the techniques of
visualization or guided imagery can be a powerful way to activate,
strengthen, and fortify your healing system. Many studies have
shown the health-enhancing benefits of guided imagery and visual
ization techniques in helping motivated patients overcome serious
illnesses, including cancer and heart disease. (For more information
on guided imagery and visualization, see Chapter 6.)
signals

that

are

transmitted

to

your

“Meeting Your Healing System”
Guided-Visualization Technique
Begin

this

technique

as

you

would the

described earlier in the book, such

Relaxation,

through

Blue

Sky Floating
directions completely

or

the

to practice it. You may also
your own voice as you read

as

through

to

Follow these
o

Make

sure

simple

you

are

steps

in

a

to

Your Back Relaxation. Read

once or

close your eyes and listen
through the imagery.
able

techniques
Deep Relaxation, Progressive

on

want to

relaxation

twice before you attempt

get a tape recorder and record
this exercise. Then you will be
to

guide

you

position, lying on your

back

your

do this

comfortable

own

voice

technique:

with your eyes closed.
o

relax
o

breathing
completely.

Focus

on

As you

ing

your

begin

to

feel

as

you allow your mind and

yourself becoming relaxed,

take

a

body

to

deep, sigh
body.

breath. As you breathe out, let all the tension leave your

deep, sighing breath, and, as you breathe out,
allow your mind and body to be completely relaxed. Make sure
you feel completely relaxed before you proceed further with this
exercise. It is important not to hurry or rush through this step.
second,

o

Take

o

After you
an

a

image

are

somewhat relaxed,

to

form in your mind of any

keep

your eyes

quiet,

closed, and allow
serene,

uplifting

Additional Methods and

place.
a

Your

been

fresh

a

beautiful outdoor

place

a

you

you have

place

a

in

saw

setting or inside

a

picture,

or a

in

actu

totally
image

that you have never seen before. ‘Whatever
appear, do not force or strain with the imagery~ and do

image

it in any way.

As you continue to breathe and relax, be patient with the
imagery. Allow it to keep forming in your mind until you have
a

•

cozy room
in real life,

to

begins to
not judge
*

could be

of a house. It could be

favorite,

ally

image

359

Techniques

clear

fairly

of the

picture

place.

Once your special place begins to come into focus, and you have
a fairly clear idea of where you are, continue to breathe deeply

and relax.
•

Allow the

•

Notice all the

•

image

What

become clearer and

to

senses,

the

are

and

sights?

answer

‘What

these

are

more

well defined.
in your mind:•

questions

the sounds? ‘What

the

are

smells?
•

‘What kind of day is it? What does the

sky look like?

‘Where

is the sun?
•

What does the

countryside

surrounding

or

environment

look like?
•

What sensations

•

‘What is the air

ity,
•

•

or

What

Breathe

dry?

is it
are

you

deeply

are

feeling

you

quality?

on

Is it cool

your skin?

or

warm? Is there humid

Are there any breezes?

wearing?

and relax

as

you allow your mind

to

absorb the

images.
*

Find

a

down,
make
•

place

or even
sure

Once you
awareness

•

to

you
are

and

sit down

stand)
are

in

(or, if you feel

in your
a

more

quiet, special place.
position.

In your

to

lie

image,

comfortable

comfortable in your special
imagination to go inside your

yourself examining the inner workings
gently survey the landscape.
See

comfortable,

place,
body.

of your

allow your

body

as

you

360

o

o

Activating

As you

move

Your

Healing System

around within the various

your

body, imagine yourself going

Find

within the

quiet place, deep

a

structures

journey

on a

and relax

Stop

once

you’ve

fortable. Let your intuition
0

Breathe

and allow

deeply,
your body.

within
See

o

yourself waiting
your healing system.

0

Wait for the first

image

begin

place
to

relax in this

anticipation,
as

com

you.

yourself

form

where you feel

inter

your

as

quiet place

you prepare

to meet

healing system begins

or

get the first

to

welcome it. Do your best not to
be afraid of the image of your healing system that your

ination presents

Allow the

to

image

case,

reject
imag

you.

of your

healing

system

to

come

into clearer

focus. Notice all you can about its shape, dimensions, color,
ture, and whether it is moving or still.
o

to

glimpses of your healing system,
allow whatever image is developing to form on its own. There is
no right or wrong here, so there is no need to judge anything
about the image. If an image forms that is totally unexpected,

As you

which is often the

o

to

guide

a

of your

into view.

come
o

with

found

and tissues of

of discovery.

body’s
protected.

recesses

nal environment, where you feel safe and
o

When You’re Sick

Your

tex

healing

animal,

or

system may even appear in the form of a person,
some other creature. It might even have a face or a

name.
o

When you have a fairly clear picture of your healing system in
your mind, allow yourself to come close enough to itso you can
have

a

conversation with it. Or it may be

are more

comfortable

stepping

back and

the distance that feels best for you, and
the image so that you are comfortable.
o

Just

as

you would upon

introduce

meeting

a new

powerful that you
creating distance. Find
adjust your position to
so

friend for the first time,

yourself your healing system. Or you may feel as if
you are meeting an old friend after a long time, and you are
reintroducing yourself.
to

Additional Methods and

~

You may want to tell your healing system how you feel. If you
are in pain, you may want to share this, or you may be angry
with it because you think it’s not been doing such a good job of
your health. Tell it this. Or you may feel

protecting
fortable
to
•

361

Techniques

asking your healing

questions

system
know it first, before you tell it how you feel.

If you

are

in

pain,

more

you may ask your

healing

heal your pain. If you are sick or have
to ask it how to heal and get better.

an

•

Ask your

•

Ask your healing system how you can get
what it needs to be healthy and strong.

•

Continue

•

Remember

more com

and

getting

system how it

illness,

you may

can

want

healing system whether you might be doing something
that is interfering with its work. Ask whether there is something
you are neglecting to do to keep your healing system strong and
vibrant. Ask how you can improve your lifestyle and your daily
personal health habits in support of its work.

to

ask

as

listen

to

many

questions

attentively to

as

the

to

know it better, and

you like.

answers

that will be forth

coming. There may be a slight delay in receiving the informa
tion, so don’t rush the responses, or be in a hurry.
•

When you

healing

done, remember

are

to

say “Thank

you”

to

your

system.

•

Find

•

Schedule

out

when you
an

can meet

appointment

again.

for the

next

time you will

meet.

Doing this is very important to help you stay accountable for
your role in this ongoing internal dialogue with your healing

healing system is punctual and always
definitely show up at whatever time and
you must be specific.

system. Because your
available to you, it will

date you
•

specify,

When you

are

but

finished,

say

“Goodbye”

to

your

healing system.

After you have completed this guided imagery/visualization
a few moments to reflect on the experience. Take a pen

exercise, take

and notebook and write down
rience

as

you

can

as

much information about the expe
new insights did you gain? Make

remember. What

362

action

Activating

plan

based

Your

ideas

Healing System

When Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Sick

information that your

healing
imagery dialogue.
Now it is up to you to implement these ideas in your daily life.
what
are you waiting for? Do it today! If you stay in touch with
So,
your healing system, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll see that it will function better and work
harder to keep you healthy and strong.
an

body’s extraordinary ability to heal itself for
a doctor. In his long and distinguished career as an awardwinning physician, educator, and speaker he has witnessed thousand
of cases of extraordinary healing achieved by patients who were able
to tap into their own healing powers. His own remarkable
recovery
from debilitating back pain, without the use of drugs or surgery
inspired his first, highly successful book, Healing Back Pain Naturally.
Dr. Brownstein is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pre
ventive Medicine and a Founding Diplomate of the American Board
he’s been

of Holistic Medicine. He is also Assistant Clinical Professor of

Medicine

at the University of Hawaii, and for many years he was
Director of the Princeville Medical Clinic in Princeville, Hawaii. Dr.

Brownstein has worked with Dr. Dean Ornish in Dr. Ornish’s very

successful program for reversing heart disease, which relies
the body’s ability to heal itself.
Dr. Brownstein lives with his wife and